Unfortunately, over 5 million Americans are dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease, which is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects a person’s memory. Although there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, scientists have identified foods that play a vital role in helping prevent the disease.
How Does Alzheimer’s Disease Affect the Brain?
Alzheimer’s Disease is a form of dementia, which impairs the overall functionality of the brain. When a person has Alzheimer’s, the brain forms several lumps of protein fragments known as beta-amyloid that cluster together and disturb cell communication. Eventually, the beta-amyloids cause inflammation in the brain that leads to cell death.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and begins by destroying neurons that are associated with memory and advances to the cerebral cortex (which is tied to social behavior, reasoning, and language skills), eventually leading to death.
Even though there is a good deal of research about Alzheimer’s, the disease still remains incurable.
However, several studies have suggested that there are a variety of foods that can help protect you from developing Alzheimer’s Disease.
1. Cinnamon
A recent study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that cinnamon – specifically Ceylon cinnamon – can inhibit tau formation. Tau is a protein that can settle inside neurons and block their transport system, which ultimately leads to Alzheimer’s.
Cinnamon contains proanthocyanidins and cinnamaldehyde which can untangle tau proteins and inhibit the onset of Alzheimer’s.
So, the next time you pour yourself a coffee, you might want to consider sprinkling a bit of cinnamon on top.
2. Salmon
Salmon is a cold-water fish that contains high amounts of omega-3, including EPA and DHA. These fatty acids nourish the brain and can prevent several types of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s.
One study suggests that eating just one gram of omega-3 each day can lead to a significant decrease in beta-amyloid, a protein closely associated with Alzheimer’s.
Not only is eating Salmon a preventative measure against developing Alzheimer’s, it also boasts numerous other health benefits as well.
So, find your favorite Salmon recipe and enjoy!
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is an Indian spice and is most often found in curry dishes. Turmeric contains an antioxidant known as curcumin that could potentially help prevent Alzheimer’s.
Studies show that the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can prevent the degeneration of neurons and improve memory and cognitive functions.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a powerful antidote against the development of Alzheimer’s Disease. Researchers believe that the vitamin A and vitamin C found in tomatoes can help prevent dementia.
Best of all, whether you prefer to eat your tomatoes raw or simmer them with a pinch of basil and garlic, tomatoes can protect you from Alzheimer’s.
5. Leafy Greens and Cruciferous Veggies
A 2010 study found that eating a variety of leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables can also protect against developing Alzheimer’s.
The non-digestible fiber, or prebiotics, found in these dark, leafy veggies helps promote good bacteria which, in turn, delays neurodegeneration.
6. Hot Peppers
Capsaicin, the active compound in hot peppers, is a powerful remedy against developing Alzheimer’s.
One study found that mice that ate a diet rich in capsaicin, presented a considerable reduction in Alzheimer related proteins.
What is interesting about this study is that up to 95% of capsaicin is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. But, 5% of capsaicin crosses over the blood-brain barriers and accesses the brain tissue.
So, the next time you’re tossing that salad, spice it up with a jalapeno pepper. Your brain will thank you!
7. Chicken
Chicken is a food that contains loads of B vitamins like B12 and folate, which are linked to helping prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.
If you find plain chicken bland and boring, try spicing it up with a bit of garlic, rosemary, or cayenne pepper.
Final Thoughts
Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease that has claimed the minds of over 5 million Americans. And although there is no cure, plenty of research studies suggest that there are certain foods that can help prevent the disease.
Therefore, consider adding chicken, salmon, tomatoes, hot peppers, leafy greens, cinnamon, and turmeric to your diet. It could change your life!
