These 5 Foods May Lead to Alzheimer’s in Aging Adults
By Lindsey Fancy 9 am on
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s, many doctors and scientists believe a person’s diet can play a major role in what causes the disease in the first place. Multiple studies have shown that certain foods put people at a greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other brain-related issues. Take a look at five of those foods, and if your senior loved one eats them, consider having him or her switch to some memory-boosting alternatives.
1. White Foods
White flour, bread, pasta, rice—these white foods aren’t just bad for the waistline. They’re also bad for the brain. Eating these foods can raise blood sugar, causing the body to produce more insulin. When this happens, the body produces toxins that aren’t good for the brain. These simple carbohydrates may also lead to other health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading home care serviceprovider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
2. Processed Meats and Cheeses
Cold cuts, bacon, hot dogs, and sausages are delicious, but these processed meats contain chemical compounds called nitrosamines. When the liver processes nitrosamines, it sends toxins to the brain. Processed cheese also has the same impact on the body.
3. Sugar
Sugar is another food that falls into the white foods category, and it should be avoided for a healthy brain and body in general. Sugar causes inflammation, and when the body experiences chronic inflammation, it can lead to health issues such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and potentially even Alzheimer’s. If your loved one has a sweet tooth, fruit is a healthier option than baked goods that contain white sugar and flour.Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of a highly trained professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Winnipeg, MB, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
4. Microwave Popcorn
Popcorn can be a healthy treat for seniors and people of all ages, but get the kind you pop yourself and skip the bags you place in the microwave. Microwave popcorn that contains artificial butter flavoring also contains a chemical called diacetyl. Studies have shown that diacetyl causes plaque to build up in the brain, which increases the risk for Alzheimer’s. The ingredient is also found in candy, margarine, and some wines.
5. Beer
If your loved one enjoys beer, it may be time to cut back or quit completely. Most beers contain nitrates, which are used to add flavor and prevent the growth of bacteria. Increased consumption of nitrates has been linked to diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and diabetes.Fortunately, there are some foods that may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s or slow its progression. Adding them to your loved one’s diet can boost his or her brain health, help him or her maintain a healthy weight, and increase the overall health of his or her other organs. Some foods may even boost memory, including leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and cabbage. Cold-water fish such as salmon also makes the list. Your loved one should eat plenty of berries and fruits with dark skin, such as apples and grapes. Dark chocolate, extra virgin olive oil, and cold-pressed virgin coconut oil may also boost brain health.If you’re the primary caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you don’t have to go through it alone. Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professionalAlzheimer’s care, Winnipeg Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. If you need professional home care for your aging loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Home Care Assistance today at (204) 489-6000.
