Health Benefits of Blueberries & Nutrient-Rich Diets
Having a diet that is nutrient rich in fruits and vegetables can help relieve long-term Alzheimer’s symptoms
Most people implement a healthy diet plan to reduce weight. Many do not consider that eating unhealthy can lead to other problems such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. The fact remains that most adults do not begin to have Alzheimer’s symptoms before reaching the age of 60. Eating a diet that is nutrient rich throughout the course of one’s life can help improve cognitive long-term function.
Why Blueberries are Important
New Research Suggests Wild Blueberries May Help Fight Alzheimer’s symptoms. Research presented in the 251st National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, the world’s largest scientific society demonstrated that blueberry could assist in preventing the devastating consequences of Alzheimer’s. Researcher, Robert Krikorian conducted studies on animals and humans to show his findings.
According to Dr. Krikorian in a news Discharge in That the American Chemical Society, our new findings confirm those of previous animal research and preliminary human research, adding additional support to the belief that blueberry might have a real benefit in enhancing cognitive and memory function in some older adults. He adds that blueberries beneficial effects might be due to flavonoids called anthocyanins, that have shown to improve animals cognition. The Wild Blueberry Association of North America is eager to support this significant research. [Source]
Wild Blueberries are specifically rich in anti-oxidants and anthocyanin an extremely concentrated flavonoid in the dark blue pigment of the fruit. Anti-oxidants have been found to defend against inflammation, which is thought to be a prominent factor in brain aging, Alzheimer’s disease, along with other degenerative diseases. Wild Blueberries have twice the antioxidant capacity per serving as their regular nonwild cultivated cousins.
The MIND Diet
In addition to blueberries, having a nutrient rich, implementing the MIND diet can also help relieve symptoms of Alzheimer’s. MIND is an acronym for the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. This diet consists of flavonoid-rich produce such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. In addition, eating green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens assist with lowering inflammation and oxidative stress which are two heavy factors that weigh into developing Alzheimer’s symptoms. For more information about the MIND diet, please visit Everyday Health.
MIND Diet Approved Foods:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Nuts
- Berries
- Beans
- Whole Grains
- Fish
- Poultry
- Olive Oil
- Wine
Foods to Avoid with the MIND Diet:
- Butter and margarine
- Cheese
- Red meat
- Fried food
- Pastries and sweets
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, the best way to take preventive measures is to implement a nutrient-rich diet. In addition, making both mental and physical exercise a priority can also help keep healthy connections between nerve cells.
For more information about memory care services provided by ComfortCare Homes, please call our office at (316) 444-0532.