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The Link between Dementia and Diet


The Medical News Today says dementia is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. The debilitating disease has no cure; and available treatments only alleviate symptoms without slowing the progression of the disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia affects more than 55 million people globally, and 10 million people receive a diagnosis each year. Of that number it is estimated 60 – 70 percent have Alzheimer’s disease, and 6 million of them are Americans. Unfortunately those numbers are expected to rise to 139 million people across the globe by 2050.

Other rising numbers are in cases of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, which are all believed to increase a person’s risk for dementia. This is why researchers are not only trying to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias but ways to reduce people’s risk for the disease.

Dr. Christopher Weber, director of global science initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that: “Research looking at the relationship between diet and cognition is well-established. There is strong evidence to suggest that what is good for the heart is good for the head, and we know a healthy diet is good for the heart.”

Researchers say one diet that appears to suggest better cognitive health is the MIND diet, (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay). It is similar to the Mediterranean diet with a heavy focus on green, leafy vegetables, nuts, berries, bean, whole grains, seafood, poultry and wine.

On the other hand, foods high in refined carbohydrates may cause an increase in the risk for Alzheimer’s. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports on a study linking processed meat products, like sausages, salami, and bacon with a relative increased risk of all dementias by 44% and Alzheimer’s disease by 52%.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized dementia care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our goal is to be the best senior living Houston offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and be sure to ask about our Grand Opening Specials.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior Living Houston has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at River Oaks provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-and-diet-is-there-a-link
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