6 Foods that Can Cause Memory Loss

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The brain needs nutritious fruits, lean and organic meats, vegetables, and enough vitamins to operate properly. Not eating enough of these healthy foods and consuming too many processed and junk foods can activate toxins in the body that negatively impact memory. Avoid serving your senior loved one the following six foods to safeguard his or her brain health and prevent memory loss. 

 

1. Microwave Popcorn

Microwave popcorn, which is a favorite go-to snack to eat while watching television or a film, may cause memory loss if it contains diacetyl, which can elevate amyloid plaques in the brain. The amassing of amyloid plaques may raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss. 

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Arlington families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

 

2. Processed Meats

Hot dogs and bacon often contain nitrosamines, which are chemical compounds that are toxic to the brain and can cause the liver to make more fats. According to a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, a boost in nitrate levels in food could increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. Many varieties of processed meats are also known to have trans fats that can impede memory and cause a lack of mental focus. 

 

3. Processed Cheese

Mozzarella sticks and American cheese are two of the many types of cheese that aren’t good for the brain. Processed cheeses play a role in building up proteins in the body, which can increase the chances of experiencing memory loss as well as Alzheimer’s disease. They’re also full of saturated fats that can harm memory and cause swelling in the brain. 

 

4. Tofu

When eaten in large quantities, tofu can be bad for the memory, especially for seniors over the age of 68. In 2008, top dementia researcher Eef Hogervorst published the results of a study in the journal Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders suggesting there’s evidence soy products abundant in phytoestrogens may have a negative impact on an aging brain, diminishing memory function and elevating the chances of dementia. 

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Arlington families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

 

5. Sweets

Donuts, pastries, and other processed treats contain large amounts of sugar. When seniors eat too much sugar, it can cause the memory center of the brain—the hippocampus—to become inflamed, which means it can’t work at full capacity. Eating too many sugary foods can also elevate blood pressure and cause extensive damage to the brain. 

 

6. Tuna

Canned tuna contains different amounts of methylmercury, which is a known neurotoxin. The body gradually releases mercury over time, but consuming too much of it could lead to a buildup of mercury in the brain. When seniors are subjected to mercury over a long period, they can experience a variety of symptoms, from difficulty walking and vision issues to brain fog and memory loss. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care service. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today to schedule a free in-home consultation.