A recent study at the Oregon Health and Science University has shown that persons over 80 with higher levels of certain vitamins and fatty acids performed better on cognitive tests and had less brain shrinkage associated with Alzheimer’s disease. And a University of Miami study showed that there was less small blood vessel damage in the brain when eating a certain diet. The Mayo Clinic studies have shown that better brain health is related to eating a fewer than 2,150 calories a day. And avoiding trans fats helps brain health, too.  Other studies elsewhere have shown similar findings.

All in all, the key to decreasing the risk of dementia seems to be to eat a balanced diet. And, while they do more studies, there are some general tips we can pass on.

Without going into all the scientific findings and supporting data, the list of brain healthy foods includes beans, green peas, citrus fruits, sweet peppers, strawberries, cantaloupes, tomatoes, broccoli, leafy greens, lettuce, cabbage, almonds and other nuts along with avocados, olive oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, spinach, collards, salmon, herring, mackerel, kale, and a little caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee.

And adding to this list, which is a modified Mediterranean diet, at least 15 minutes of sunshine a day and some activity, you end up with a combination more likely to aid in brain health.  

Avoiding the likelihood of developing a dementia, like Alzheimer’s, means you are more likely to remain independent much longer. So, while we can help you with your senior housing resources in the Vancouver and Clark County area, we are all for staying independent as long as possible.  This may mean delaying the need for assisted living or memory care.

One more thing.  Be sure to consult your physician if you are taking medication for high blood pressure or blood thinners as grapefruit and some fish may have side effects if you are on certain medications.  Wishing you good health . . .