As Alzheimer’s Awareness Month comes to an end, we wanted to wrap up this month’s blog topics with something a little different. As we’ve already discussed the benefits of behavioral home care and how to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer’s, this week, we thought it’d be helpful to share information on some memory-boosting foods that you may want to add to your weekly meal plans.
Before creating a meal plan for a homecare client, be sure to consult with his or her primary doctor.
Top 6 Best Memory-Boosting Foods
- Berries: Antioxidants found in blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries have been known to delay cognitive aging by about 2.5 years. Berries may also help lower your cholesterol and are a great source of soluble fiber.
- Cabbage: Purple and red cabbage also contain special antioxidants that help you recharge your brain power!
- Fish: Both salmon and trout contain omega 3 fatty acids, which your brain uses to build cells. In a recent study, participants who consumed more fish in their diet actually had more gray matter in their brains, which contains the nerve cells that control memory. Of course, you’ll want to talk to your loved one’s doctor about incorporating more fish into his or her diet, as salmon and other fish contain mercury, which can be harmful to the body in large consumptions.
- Turmeric: This ancient spice offers numerous benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and an ability to boost serotonin. Curcumin, the main ingredient in turmeric, also has the ability to help brain cells grow and could potentially delay mental decline.
- Coffee: Some studies have shown that coffee may actually help prevent memory loss. And in addition to boosting serotonin levels and improving concentration, drinking coffee may be related to preventing Alzheimer’s and other neurological diseases.
- Green Tea: If you aren’t a coffee fan, don’t worry! Green tea also contains plenty of amino acids, lipids, and vitamins that help with memory and improve brain function and reduce mental fatigue. Cinnamon, olive oil, and dark chocolate are also other natural brain boosters that work similarly to coffee and green tea.
Before creating any meal plan for your homecare client or loved one, you’ll want to consult with his or her doctor to ensure certain foods and spices won’t counteract with any medications he or she is taking.
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