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Recommendation: Maintain a healthy weight.
Rationale: Malnutrition and weight loss are common side effects of Alzheimer's.
Notes: To help a person with Alzheimer's keep weight on, serve five to six small meals throughout the day; this may be easier than eating larger amounts at only three sittings.
Recommendation: Choose fish rich in omega-3 fats.
Rationale: Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA help maintain normal brain function throughout life.
Notes: Look for fish high in omega-3s and low in contaminants, including Alaskan salmon, tilapia, rainbow trout, and cod; EPA and DHA are also available in supplement form.
Recommendation: Eat foods rich in vitamin E.
Rationale: May slow cognitive decline.
Notes: Good food sources include sunflower seeds, chard, and mustard greens.
Recommendation: Eat foods rich in B vitamins (folic acid, B6, and B12).
Rationale: Help protect brain against developing Alzheimer's by lowering homocysteine levels in the blood.
Notes: Good food sources include fortified grain products, beans, and leafy green vegetables.
Recommendation: Eat a variety of whole grains.
Rationale: Whole grains are an excellent source of thiamin, which may boost cognitive abilities.
Notes: Other sources of thiamin include lentils and nuts.
Recommendation: Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Rationale: Phytonutrients and antioxidants in fruits and vegetables promote healthy brain function and keep you healthy throughout the aging process.
Notes: Blueberries in particular are an excellent source of these phytonutrients.
Recommendation: Choose foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Rationale: Help keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check.
Notes: People with high cholesterol and high blood pressure may be at greater risk for Alzheimer's.
Recommendation: Choose foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Rationale: Help keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check.
Notes: People with high cholesterol and high blood pressure may be at greater risk for Alzheimer's.