It is no secret that eating healthy foods contribute to a healthy body and Memory Issues. But, did you know that having a healthy diet may also reduce the risk of cognitive decline?
Research shows that certain foods actually have specific benefits to the mind and brain. In previous studies, experts found out that seniors who eat nutritious foods decrease the risk of cognitive decline by up to 25 percent. In fact, this is no longer new to the public as many seniors have already experienced and felt these advantages.
The truth is, cognitive decline is natural as you age. While it is natural, this does not mean that one could not reduce the risk of it in the long run.
If you are wondering what these foods are, here are the top five foods that every senior should consume, especially those who are living with memory issues.
Five Foods For Seniors With Memory Issues
Salmon
Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood have links to having smaller brain volume. Also, some studies suggest that having an insufficient amount of this fatty acid may even lead to the degradation of mental function performance.
Fortunately, there are several foods that are rich in omega-3, specifically DHA. Foods like salmon and other cold-water fish are some great examples.
Experts claimed that consuming salmon instead of meat a couple of times per week will already do. The reason being is that DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain. Accordingly, it makes total sense why having sufficient amounts of DHA in the blood can benefit the brain.
Broccoli
Every person needs to eat cups of vegetables every day. It is not a new thing to hear that vegetables offer tons of benefits to the human brain and body.
However, it is important to note that not all vegetables are created equal. As it happens there are few that stand out the most among all.
For memory issues and other brain-related concerns, the most apparent vegetable that can help with these things is broccoli. Thanks to its choline and vitamin K properties, 2.5 cups per day of this dark green veggie can already go a long way.
Experts stated that vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that the body utilizes to form sphingolipids. This is a form of fat that is largely present in the brain. The more you have vitamin K, the more you can strengthen your cognitive abilities.
On the other hand, choline has several benefits not only to the brain but also to your body. Aside from improving memory issues and concerns, it helps detoxify the body, as well.
Avocados
Having a healthy blood flow benefits the brain in all aspects, and one way to improve one’s blood flow is by taking enough amounts of monounsaturated fat. There are several foods that offer high levels of this fat. But, among all, avocados are the ones that help the brain most.
Apart from improving the blood flow, half an avocado per day can also help prevent blood clots in the brain. Moreover, it has the ability to regulate blood sugar, as well as inflammation, and consequently, reduce the risk of hypertension.
For seniors who have memory problems, this high fat-fruit can improve such concerns because of its folate content. These are only some of the reasons why avocados are quite common in most assisted living for seniors in recent times.
Walnuts
Vitamin E is another great factor to combat cognitive decline. Studies show that people who eat foods that are rich in this vitamin had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease.
It is worth noting that AD is common for many seniors. But, despite being a common concern, it is not normal for any elderly individual to have this kind of health issue.
This is why many experts in the field recommend consuming more vitamin E-rich foods. One great example is walnuts, which also offer enough omega-3 fats, biotin, copper, and manganese, aside from vitamin E.
The way it works is by trapping free radicals present in the body and brain. This vitamin has this kind of ability, which benefits the brain in the long run because free radicals cause significant damage to brain cells. This then explains why many assisted living communities today include schools of fish like salmon in their weekly diet.
Blueberries
Berries are another beneficial food for seniors, especially those who are living with memory concerns. They are filled with antioxidants that fight and combat free radicals.
Among all the dark berries that can provide this benefit, blueberries rank the top. The reason being is that this type of berry offers more advantages to the consumers.
Alongside its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects, it is also rich in vitamin K. In addition, most of the antioxidants found in blueberries are helpful in improving brain cells’ sensitivity and communication.
Studies also add that blueberries can decrease the risks of neurodegenerative diseases and brain aging. Furthermore, it can boost memory retention and even prevent short-term memory loss.
Final Thoughts
Having a healthy diet is a must if you want to live a healthy life. While there are tons of healthy foods that you may choose to eat every day, there are only a few foods that are deemed as “brain foods.”
Among all these kinds of consumables, these five given foods above are the best, especially for seniors and elderly individuals. Although it helps them with their brain-related concerns, there is no reason for anyone to not eat them, as well, on a regular basis.
