Nutrition for Brain Health

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is characterized by cognitive decline and decreased brain function. Recent scientific studies have investigated the role of nutrition in dementia and have suggested nutritional changes for those at risk for dementia. This second edition discusses nutritional interventions that promote brain health to decrease the risk of developing dementia and slow the progression of the disease following diagnosis. Sections new to this edition discuss a broad range of lifestyle choices that can influence cognitive function, including exercise, proper nutrition, sleep and stress reduction, and staying mentally and socially active. Checklists include Cleveland Clinic pillars of brain health, Meeting health goals, and Brain health dos and don’ts. Brain-healthy diets are also discussed, including the Mediterranean diet, DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), and MIND, which combines the Mediterranean diet and DASH. Information is specifically focused on food and drink choices that promote healthy cognitive function. Checklists include Popular diets, Common diet goals, Potential barriers to starting a successful diet, Signs of fad diets, and MIND diet facts. If you or your loved one is at risk for developing dementia, following the guidelines presented in this book can help you maintain your brain health and fight the onset of dementia. If you or your loved one has already been diagnosed with dementia, this book will provide insights into nutritional changes that may slow the progression of the disease. It also presents tips for helping your loved one with severe dementia maintain adequate nutrition when eating becomes difficult.