Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia impair a person’s ability to think, remember, and/or engage in his or her normal routines. Despite the fact that it affects mostly older adults, dementia is not a normal part of aging. Nonetheless, more people are being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. In fact, by the year 2060, the number of people in the United States with dementia is expected to increase to 14 million. So the chance that one or more residents in your community could be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia is relatively certain. But prevention strategies are the best tools available to reduce the risk of developing dementia. 

Scientists are unraveling the complex details of which foods and nutrients can prevent specific human health issues. Several foods have emerged as being neuroprotective, and the Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (the MIND diet) features many of them. The MIND diet is one of the most exciting advancements in dementia prevention.  

The MIND-Diet Approach 

Introduced in 2015, the MIND diet combines the aspects of the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and is designed to preserve cognitive function. The diet recommends the consumption of vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables), berries, beans, whole grains, nuts, fish, and poultry. According to research, the MIND diet — when strictly adhered to — may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by up to 53%. For people who only partially adhere to the MIND diet, the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias is reduced by up to 35%.

In addition, studies point out that green leafy vegetables — which the MIND diet recommends consuming at least six servings a week — may be key in delaying or preventing mental decline, slashing up to 11 years from brain age in people who consume them every day. The diet is rich in certain nutrients that appear to reduce the risk of developing dementia:

 

The synergy of these and other nutrients provides cognitive protection through their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties. Research indicates that they may also be effective at improving insulin sensitivity and gut microbiota. Inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are modifiable risk factors for dementia. “Certain nutrients may play a part in delaying or even preventing the onset of cognitive decline, but it is the synergistic effect of a variety of nutrients that have the greatest impact,” says registered dietitian Mindi Manuel, Sodexo Seniors’ senior area manager of clinical support.

The sooner the MIND diet’s recommendations are implemented, the greater the chance of preventing or delaying the onset of dementia. Senior living professionals should remember that in addition to providing residents with the foods recommended in the MIND diet, social engagement and physical activity are also important in preserving cognitive health.

 

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Download Sodexo Seniors Client Newsletter — Spring 2023