Diet and Dementia – Strike the Right Harmony

Our mental health is very much defined by the food that we consume. Therefore, people can overcome various conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, fatigue, etc., by practicing a healthy food intake. 

In neurodegenerative disorders like dementia, a good diet is fundamental for preventing and delaying deteriorating mental conditions.

Blissful Gardens – A senior living El Dorado Hills provides therapeutic and advanced care for seniors. Customized diets are prepared for our residents by nutrition experts keeping into consideration their individual preferences. 

Diet and Dementia

Many scientists and health experts have suggested the DASH diet for Alzheimer's patients. Some recommend practicing a combination of DASH and other types of diet for dementia care.

DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), together with some basic exercises, has significantly proven beneficial. It focuses on reducing sodium intake to lower blood pressure levels.

Diet recommendations for Dementia

There is not much change required if the patient is already consuming balanced meals divided throughout the day. Although for better mental health, certain foods are a must while some should be reduced or eliminated from their diet.

Must-have foods

• Vegetables – Not just green but other vegetables are also rich in nutrients necessary for the body. That does not green leafy vegetables are to be avoided. They are primary sources of various minerals and vitamins.

• Protein – Sources of protein are in abundance both for vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Ideally,  protein should be the same as the body weight in grams. Lentils, pulses, beans, quinoa, chicken and fish are known for their protein quotient.

• Nuts – Almonds, Pistachios, Cashew nuts, Walnuts and many other are rich in Omega 3 – a vital for good mental health.

Foods to be taken modestly

• Cheese and Butter – Fat-rich dairy products have their benefits if consumed in moderation. Excess of it can lead to obesity, as we know.

• Sweeteners – For sweet tooths, it is wise to tame your sweet indulgence.

Foods to be eliminated

• High sodium package foods – A pinch of sodium to tickle your tastebuds can adversely affect health. Thereby, eliminating is ideal.

• Refined sugar – Sugar is safest when consumed from natural sources like fruits.

• Sodas – Carbonated drinks can critically spike blood sugar levels. 

At Blissful Gardens, utmost importance is given to the diet and safety of seniors, especially if they have a progressing dementia health condition. The lifestyle habits developed at our senior living in Folsom can help in hampering the steady progression of this condition.

Comments