As we all live longer, the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease is steadily increasing. Scientists are constantly looking for the causes and ways of reducing the risk.
Researchers have found a link between inflammation in the brain and Alzheimer’s disease which has led to a specific anti-inflammatory eating plan called MIND.
This has had impressive results in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s. The eating plan focuses on whole foods and has some similarities to other eating plans you may of heard of - the Mediterranean diet (good for heart health) and the DASH diet (can help reduce high blood pressure).
The MIND approach specifically includes 10 brain healthy food groups:
Green leafy vegetables, vegetables in general, berries, nuts, beans, whole grains, poultry, fish, olive oil and small amounts of red wine or purple grape juice.
There are many other anti-inflammatory foods but these are singled out as particularly important for brain health.
Foods that are not so good for brain health and should be avoided in the MIND approach or kept to a minimum are red meat, butter, cheese, fried food, sweets, cakes and fast food. These are inflammatory provoking foods and are not helpful in protecting your brain.
It is also important in trying to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s to stop smoking, exercise every day – even just going for a walk, and stimulate your brain with social interaction and mental activities.
Diet is only one part of the picture in keeping your brain healthy. If you have other health issues then a more tailored eating plan may be more suitable for you and a Registered Nutritional Therapist can advise.