You might have heard of the Mediterranean Diet. This “wonder” diet was said to help people fight off dementia, stay at a healthy weight, and improve cardiovascular health. Scientists have laid some doubt on the claims that this diet has made in the past, but new research shows that there’s actually some truth to them, at least the dementia part of it. And the main reason why this diet is associated with a lower risk of dementia? It turns out that it’s extra virgin olive oil (EVOO).
Studies show that EVOO, which is used liberally in a Mediterranean style diet, has a lot of benefits when it comes to brain health. Learning ability and memory are both more heavily protected when this is present in a diet because of the fact that it helps reduce the formation of amyloid-beta plaques on brain cells, something that is common in those that have Alzheimer’s disease. EVOO also helps to reduce neurofibrillary tangles. These are also associated with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The research indicates that EVOO helps to promote autophagy, the process where cells are broken down and toxins and other debris are cleansed from the brain.
The fact that a healthier diet can do so much good is exciting news. There’s not a lot that we can do about some physical or emotional conditions in our lives, but diet is one of those things that we can control to a great degree. Just eating a Mediterranean style diet with fish, nuts, EVOO, and other healthy things can help us to protect our brains as we age.
Caring for a loved one with dementia is often an overwhelmingly difficult task. Not only does it require a lot of physical energy, it is hard on an emotional level to see someone that you care dearly for struggle with cognitive tasks that we often take for granted. Seeing them struggle, and the frustration that comes along with that, is tough. That’s why we stress preventative measures like eating right, staying active, and maintaining close relationships with others. There’s no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but science has shown us a few things that we can do to help reduce the likelihood of it developing.
If you are looking for care for someone that you love that’s suffering from Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, we might be able to be of assistance. Memory care is a large part of what we do at Paradise In-Home Care. If you’re just beginning your journey with senior care, give us a call today so we can schedule a free consultation for you. We might not be the best option for the in-home care of your mom or dad, but we just might be. This needs to be determined on a case by case basis. And if we’re not the best fit for you, we will be sure to point you in the right direction so that your parent can get the caring and individualized attention that they deserve.
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