Superfoods provide the nutrition the body needs to function properly and boost cognitive health. These foods are also known for protecting delicate brain cells and reducing the risk of cognitive impairment. Here are some of the best superfoods for boosting brain health in older adults.
1. Berries
Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are filled with vitamin C and other nutrients. The antioxidants in berries combat free radicals that cause cell damage.
Researchers from the American Chemical Society studied the impact of eating berries on brain health. Their article was published in the society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, and it reported that berries increase communication between neurons, which prevents inflammation. As the function of neurons increases, they’re better able to enhance cognition and motor control. The researchers also learned that eating berries on a regular basis boosts memory. Berries can be eaten in their natural state, on cereals, and in smoothies.
Eating berries is just one of the many ways seniors can boost their overall health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Assisting Hands Home Care Portland is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Oily Fish
Salmon, sardines, and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids that boost the immune system. As the brain contains up to 60 percent fat, eating oily fish encourages the development of new brain cells when needed.
Wild salmon also contains a compound known as docosahexaenoic acid, which is known to protect the brain from developing Alzheimer’s disease. When exposed to fish oil, brain cells are 95 percent less likely to develop inflammation. Seniors should try to eat oily fish twice a week for optimal benefits.
3. Meat
Meats, poultry, fish, and eggs contain an abundance of protein and vitamin B, which are necessary for proper nerve cell function. Tests performed on people with Alzheimer’s disease revealed that many of them have vitamin B deficiencies. Eating meat also reduces compounds known as homocysteines, which increase the risk of cognitive impairment and stroke.
If your senior loved one has Alzheimer’s and needs help managing daily tasks, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Portland Assisting Hands Home Care provides reliable caregivers around the clock to help your loved one age in place safely and comfortably while living with Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Tomatoes
In addition to vitamin C, tomatoes also contain an antioxidant known as lycopene that combats free radicals known to damage neurons and cause dementia. Including tomatoes in the diet each day can enhance memory and reduce the risk of stroke. Older adults can enjoy tomatoes in salads, soups, and stews.
5. Broccoli
Choline is vital for neuron development and growth, and broccoli is a rich source of this nutrient. An article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition explains the effects of choline on brain health. The researchers learned that diets rich in choline enabled older adults to score higher on memory tests. Seniors were also less likely to experience the cell damage that causes dementia. Broccoli is also rich in vitamin K, which boosts overall cognitive function.
By adding superfoods to their diets and making healthy lifestyle choices, seniors can stave off a wide variety of age-related issues. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of homecare. Portland families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 503-664-7934.
