With September being World Alzheimer’s month, people across the world are bringing together their research and plans on how best to combat the disease that affects millions of people every year.
While some findings involve complicated and rigorous tests that are conducted by specialised researchers and experts in their field, some research aims to find simple ways on how to combat and delay dementia.
One of the ways that have been looked into by experts is by looking at what we eat. Some foods are believed to contain ingredients that have the potential to reduce the risk of dementia, so incorporating them into your diet could help you greatly in the long run.
1) Omega-3
Fish is commonly referred to as ‘brain food’ because it is believed to have many positive effects on the brain when consumed, which in turn could help delay dementia.
This is because fish contains a specific type of fatty acid known as omega-3. While our body does make this substance naturally, it is only made in small amounts, so our body relies on us to consume more through our diet.
Researchers have noticed that omega-3 can greatly help protect the cells from a process known as oxidative stress, which Is believed to contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
2) Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice most commonly associated with Indian food and culture, although it has also been known for its uses in traditional Chinese medicine too.
As well as being a pain reliever and antioxidant, it is also believed to improve cognitive health, which in turn could help delay dementia.
This is due to the fact that turmeric contains chemical compounds known as curcuminoids. In lab-based studies, these compounds have been found to break down amyloid-beta plaques, which are commonly found in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
3) Vitamin C
As well as helping the body with new cell growth, vitamin C is believed to also have memory-protecting abilities.
There have been many different tests that have looked into the effects of vitamin C but is generally believed that a regular intake of between 75 and 300mg can have a protective and healing effect on the brain.
Vitamin C can be found in fruits such as oranges and grapefruit, and vegetables such as peppers, broccoli and spinach.
4) Green Vegetables
Green vegetables, particularly leafy ones, are also believed to help combat dementia.
Back in 2015, a study conducted by researchers from Rush University in Chicago found that people who consumed green vegetables, such as spinach, on a daily basis were found to have the cognitive abilities of someone 11 years younger.
It is believed that the vitamin K found in these types of vegetables plays an important role in improving one’s brain function.
5) Berries
Be it strawberries, blueberries or raspberries, these types of fruit are believed to help the brain fend off cognitive diseases like dementia.
Like omega-3, berries have been found to reduce the risk of oxidative stress, which is closely linked to dementia.
It is believed the plant chemical known as anthocyanins, which are found in berries, are the ingredient that contribute to help delay dementia.
