Everyone knows that an apple or banana is a healthier snack than a donut or chips. We all understand that there are nutritional benefits from fresh fruits and vegetables that donuts and chips not only lack but can negatively impact health. As a result, we try to make healthy choices with hopes of having healthier bodies that deliver more energy, fewer illnesses, and sharper mental acuity.
Healthy nutrition is even more important for individuals living with dementia. Dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease affect every facet of human health --- cognitive, behavioral and physical. Eating healthy foods is therefore essential to helping them stay as well as possible for as long as possible. Eating unhealthy foods does just the opposite, potentially speeding up the degree of deterioration and negatively impacting their quality of life.
How exactly does healthy nutrition benefit individuals with dementia? Here are five key areas:
- Improved cognition. While omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, avocados and other healthy foods cannot reverse dementia, studies have found them to improve overall cognition. They are also good for the heart, which is responsible for keeping the brain oxygenated.
- Reduced blood pressure. Bananas, potatoes, and leafy vegetables like spinach are rich in potassium which can help maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Stronger immunity. Citrus fruits, berries, and nuts are packed with antioxidants to help boost immunity.
- Improved muscle and joint strength. Dairy products as well as fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel and tuna are high in calcium, which helps maintain bone density as well as strengthen connective tissue. Lean protein found in chicken, pork and lean beef helps maintain muscle density.
- Enhanced emotional wellbeing. Diets that have a balance of whole grains, lean meat, leafy vegetables, fish, and low-fat dairy will reduce inflammation throughout the body and help individuals feel their best, both physically and emotionally.
The positive impact of good nutrition on the health and wellbeing of individuals with dementia is why it is so important for family caregivers to ensure that their loved ones are adhering to a healthy diet.
The Alzheimer’s Association has some tips to help, which we’ve summarized below:
- Keep cholesterol within healthy limits. While it is a good idea to limit their fat intake, it is also important to differentiate bad fat from good fat. For instance, some foods like avocados and salmon are high in omega-6 fatty acids which are healthy. Other fats, such as butter, lard and fatty cuts of meats, are high in cholesterol and may have little to no nutritive value.
- Limit foods with refined sugars. Many individuals with dementia develop a “sweet tooth”. This can lead to binging on sugary foods like donuts, candy, and sodas. Help them opt for healthier options like fruit or juice-sweetened baked goods.
- Avoid foods with high sodium content. Too much salt increases blood pressure. Many processed foods contain large amounts of sodium. Try replacing salt with herbs and spices. If you must use salted foods, look for those with “low sodium” or “lightly salted” labels.
- Avoid alcohol. While an occasional glass of wine may not pose a health risk to a healthy, alert adult, alcohol can negatively impact the physical health and cognition of individuals with dementia. Today there are a variety of delicious alcohol-free drinks on the market. The best alternative, however, is juice or water.
- Encourage a variety of healthy foods daily. It is important to have a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy and protein each day. The Mediterranean Diet has long been recommended by health professionals for its healthy mix of nutritious foods.
Above all, never assume that your loved one is eating properly. As the disease progresses their ability to make healthy food choices will become impaired. They may opt for sugary or salty foods. If they are no longer able to cook, they may gravitate towards processed fast foods. At some point, they may even forget to eat altogether. This is why regular supervision of your loved one’s nutrition is essential to keep them healthy and cognitively engaged for as long as possible.
Here are a few additional resources from the Alzheimer’s Association to guide you through the process of providing healthy nutrition for your loved one with dementia:
Feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities for more tips and resources on healthy nutrition. We’re here to help!
Since 2009,
Anthem Memory Care has been a haven for loved ones who need memory and dementia care. Our experienced, professional team expands over 20 communities with more than 1,300 suites designed for memory care needs. Each community offers numerous helpful amenities and resources, creating a nurturing and supportive environment that caters to the needs of our residents. Along with compassionate and personalized
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