There is no treatment for dementia—a disease that costs more than $1.3 trillion worldwide—but researchers have uncovered mind-boosting benefits derived from certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, vitamin B-rich fruits and vegetables—and now, blueberries.
According to the researchers, blueberries improve an individual's memory because they are full of anthocyanins, a flavonoid which decreases inflammation. In America, more than six million people have dementia, the Alzheimer's Association has identified.
Researchers determined that up to six cups of wild blueberries a day improves memory in older adults in 12 weeks, but the dose is unrealistic. When adding just one daily cup of blueberries to the diets of older adults, researchers found improvements in their long-term memory and some other aspects of cognition.
Now, there's some science to back up the value of berries — from blueberries, blackberries, strawberries to acai; from lingonberries to pomegranate — to our brain health. For example, they're part of a Mediterranean-style diet, which research shows may lower one's dementia risk.
Learn about the specialties and treatments we offer at the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute. Scientists have found that healthy older adults who consumed concentrated blueberry juice every day showed a significant increase in brain activity, blood flow and even memory compared to the placebo group after just a few weeks.
What are the foods that fight memory loss? Berries, fish, and leafy green vegetables are 3 of the best foods that fight memory loss. There's a mountain of evidence showing they support and protect brain health.
Offer different types of drink throughout the day such as tea, coffee, hot and cold milky drinks, fruit juice or smoothies, soup, squash and water. Make sure the cup or glass is suitable – not too heavy or a difficult shape.
However, as a general guideline, it's recommended to consume no more than 1-2 cups of blueberries per day to avoid negative side effects. Consuming more than this amount on a regular basis may contribute to blood sugar imbalances, tooth decay, kidney stone formation, or allergic reactions.
Compounds in blueberries known as flavonoids may improve memory, learning and general cognitive function—and could slow age-related decline in mental function. Scientists have identified more than 6,000 different flavonoids.
According to a few studies, a bowl of blueberries can help in boosting immunity and can reduce the risk of diabetes, obesity and heart diseases. Moreover, consuming a small portion of berries daily can help in strengthening the metabolism and prevent any kind of metabolic syndrome and deficiency.
Best Foods for Preventing Dementia
Food that are rich in carotenoids include carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, papaya, apricots, and leafy greens such as spinach and kale.
Packed with micronutrients and bioactive flavonoid compounds such as anthocyanins, a study indicated blueberries may play a role in protecting against neurocognitive decline. Regularly consuming blueberries may protect against cognitive decline in people who are at risk of dementia, according to a new study (Nutrients.
Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals found in bananas help preserve nerve tissue against neurotoxins, which deteriorate nervous tissue when exposed to its substance. This may also help in preventing neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
other long-term health problems – dementia tends to progress more quickly if the person is living with other conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, particularly if these are not well-managed.
Try gentle touching, soothing music, reading, or walks. Reduce noise, clutter, or the number of people in the room. Try to distract the person with a favorite snack, object, or activity. Limit the amount of caffeine the person drinks and eats.
There have also been other suggestions as to how coffee can help against dementia. Research has shown that caffeinated coffee increases production of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, which helps the brain in several ways.
A study assessing the cognitive function and hydration status of 1,091 people over age 65 found that dehydrated individuals were at higher risk for dementia, while individuals with dementia were at higher risk for dehydration [6].
Study of green tea and other molecules uncovers new therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's. Researchers have discovered how a molecule found in green tea breaks apart tangles of the protein tau, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
Current medications can't cure Alzheimer's disease or other dementias, but they might be able to slow it down and make it easier to live with. They may relieve symptoms related to memory, thinking, language and other thought processes. In addition, they may also help with mood, agitation and other behavioral issues.
Ice cream brings people with dementia to happier, warmer times when the treat was shared with friends and loved ones at special, joyous occa- sions. Ice cream has the power to immediately elicit soothing feelings at the very first taste of a single spoon-full.
Administration: The examiner reads a list of 5 words at a rate of one per second, giving the following instructions: “This is a memory test. I am going to read a list of words that you will have to remember now and later on. Listen carefully. When I am through, tell me as many words as you can remember.
Here are the top worst offenders: Processed meats & cheeses: Foods like bacon, ham, and meats from the deli counter contain nitrosamines. Nitrates cause increased fats in the liver, which can be toxic for the brain. Excessive consumption of processed meats can also increase the risk of dementia.