Studies Show a Healthy Diet Reduces Risk of Cognitive Decline

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease, and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite early studies showing MIND lowered the “risk of Alzheimer's by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely.” In 2018, the MIND diet recommendation was expanded to include older adults who have suffered a stroke.

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy.

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia.

At MorningStar of Kirkland, we offer residents a healthy, carefree lifestyle with maintenance-free apartments, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our five-star dining experience features seasonal menus with the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible.

Meals at MorningStar include a variety of nutritional choices to allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options. Our chef also uses ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.” These include items like berries, Omega 3 fats, nuts and leafy greens. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in Kirkland, WA.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Kirkland, WA offers.

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