While no specific diet can prevent or treat Alzheimer’s, experts encourage people to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. This means including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding foods high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt.
Research indicates that the Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diets have links to
Additionally, study findings suggest the ketogenic diet
Many diets and supplements claim to be miracle cures for Alzheimer’s. People should know that although some studies have shown a relationship between cognitive function and certain diets or nutrients, there is no evidence that any particular one can prevent or treat the disease.
Read more about how diet can affect Alzheimer’s, which diets a person can try, and more.
In 2020, approximately
Because Alzheimer’s medications only
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In particular, some research
People with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, are less likely to eat nutritious diets and
Because the keto diet can reduce a person’s appetite, it may cause a person with these symptoms to become even more malnourished.
It is important to note that in addition to diet, other lifestyle changes can benefit people with Alzheimer’s.
The Mediterranean diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, fish, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats, including nuts and olive oil. It also includes limited amounts of meat and poultry. Additionally, the diet limits red meat consumption and encourages people to use herbs for flavor rather than salt.
Some studies indicate the diet may benefit people with or at risk of the disease.
A 2021 study investigated the link between the Mediterranean diet and Alzheimer’s. It compared how well people stuck to the eating plan, and it involved a range of participants with symptoms ranging from no cognitive impairment to mild cognitive impairment.
The study results indicated that closer adherence to the diet had links to better memory, less plaque accumulation in the brain, and some protection against brain atrophy. While some of these results may indicate that the diet helps brain function, they also show that people with a better memory are more able to stick to the diet.
The MIND diet is a mixture of the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. Although experts designed the DASH diet for people with high blood pressure, some research has also shown its
Studies have shown that following the MIND diet may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. For example, a
The diet emphasizes plant foods and limits high saturated fat foods and animal foods. In particular, it focuses on berries and green leafy vegetables.
The ketogenic diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrates.
Although approaches to the diet vary, most protocols aim to keep carbs
Experts supporting the use of the keto diet for Alzheimer’s say that it may reduce an accumulation of plaque in the brain. This accumulation is one of the
Additionally, the diet reduces inflammation, one of the essential factors in Alzheimer’s pathology, which is the abnormal physiology underlying a condition.
Despite these potential benefits, the keto diet has some downsides.
Unlike nutritious, balanced eating plans, such as the Mediterranean and MIND diets, keto’s long-term safety is questionable.
Possible
Additionally, it can reduce a person’s appetite, which may be particularly harmful in people with Alzheimer’s, as they are
The Alzheimer’s Association recommends a balanced diet, including:
- fruits
- vegetables
- whole grains
- sources of lean protein, such as beans, fish, and poultry
- dairy products
The Alzheimer’s Association advises avoiding or limiting:
- foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, such as butter and red meat
- foods high in sugar
- foods high in salt
Multiple studies have examined the value of dietary supplements for Alzheimer’s. The
Researchers have not studied many products on the market extensively enough to know their:
- effects on cognition
- safety
- interactions with medication
Several supplements show potential benefits, but the research supporting their use is limited. They include DHA, curcumin, and others.
Docosahexaenoic acid
Some research supports taking docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, in supplement form.
However, a
Curcumin
The authors of a
The results indicated that curcumin maintains the structure and function of blood vessels in the brain, which may protect cognitive function. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin supplements are safe and well-tolerated, but absorption is poor. To address this problem, researchers are currently studying new curcumin supplement formulations.
Learn more about vitamins, minerals, and supplements in our dedicated hub.
Changes in the brain happen
People with concerns about their risk of developing Alzheimer’s may want to consult a doctor. They can evaluate a person’s risk factors and make any relevant dietary recommendations.
Learn the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian here.
Both diets emphasize plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and have other health benefits without long-term health risks.
Conversely, some
Other lifestyle factors, including exercise, blood pressure control, and cognitive training, may also help a person’s brain function.