The foods seniors consume each day can impact their brain function. Therefore, they need to practice healthy eating to preserve their memory and boost their cognitive health. Here are some of the foods that can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and why elderly people need to avoid these items.
Pasta
Pasta is typically made with white flour, sugars, and highly processed grains. It’s digested more quickly than most foods, and it can cause a significant increase in blood sugar levels. Since the glycemic index is higher in refined carbohydrates such as pasta, it can impair many of the body’s functions, including the memory.
Eating foods with higher sugar content can make it difficult to live an independent life in the senior years. To boost his or her memory and quality of life, your aging parent needs to avoid pasta and breads that are full of refined sugars, eating gluten-free products and whole grains instead.
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Processed Meats
Processed meats are high in saturated fat and promote insulin resistance, which is a top risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease in older adults. The protein in meats is good for mental and physical health, but too much protein and saturated fat can be a dangerous combination.
In addition to avoiding processed meats, your loved one should refrain from eating red meats, opting for leaner options or fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna. Seafood and lean meats can preserve brain health and reduce the risk of memory loss.
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Microwave Popcorn
This snack is full of diacetyl, a chemical known to increase amyloid plaques in the brain. If your loved one continues to eat microwave popcorn, he or she could experience amyloid plaque buildup, which increases the risk of Alzheimer’s development.
When it comes to snacking, your loved one needs to choose healthier options that protect the brain and fight against age-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. For instance, your loved one can eat nuts, fresh fruits, kale chips, and dark chocolate during the times he or she craves microwave popcorn and other unhealthy snack options.
Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic products can cause slurred speech, confusion, slow reaction times, and memory impairment, which are some of the symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Regular alcohol consumption can lead to brain inflammation and hypertension and ultimately increase the risk of memory impairment. Beer is the worst alcoholic beverage for older adults because it contains nitrates, which are associated with Alzheimer’s development.
Instead of alcohol, encourage your loved one to drink water, green tea, and healthy fruit beverages. If your loved one wants to drink alcoholic items, encourage him or her to limit the daily intake and choose drinks such as red wine instead of beer.
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