Dementia is coming to be a common problem of old age.
Senile dementia or dementia is a condition when the person loses out on some of his or her cognitive abilities and/or memory.
There is a neural tissue problem and the person cannot lead an independent life. But certain foods seem to play a protective role in this condition.
Dementia and the growing problem
Dementia affects many millions of old age people. And the numbers are growing. In this, the person starts forgetting things.
The thinking abilities are hampered to the extent that daily functioning and social interactions get adversely affected. Memory and cognition show predominant affliction.
It becomes a lifelong thing and the person becomes a liability. He or she cannot move around independently and may not be able to find his or her way back home.
And the worst part is that there is no cure for this condition. The person and his family have to live with it.
Certain drugs can help in lessening the handicap. And certain therapies also play a role. But the outcomes are limited and variable.
Ways to limit the handicap
A healthy lifestyle overall assists in limiting this debilitating brain condition. Try to be active and social. NHS advises:
“There’s good evidence that a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing dementia when you’re older.”
Healthy life practices lessen their onset and severity. Certain risk factors can be modified to avoid this ailment. Try to not lead a sedentary lifestyle.
Try to be in a social circle and not alone. Attend gatherings or parks or some plays and theater activities. Do not let depression overtake you.
This is crucial since the more lonely and depressed we are, the higher the chances of losing cognitive ability and memory. NHS adds:
“Experts agree that what’s good for your heart is also good for your brain,”
Keep blood pressure under control and cease smoking. Be a moderate or no drinker. NHS states:
“Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol increases your risk of stroke,”
Foods to boost the brain
Certain foods have been found to boost memory and cognition and thus thwart this dementing state. The omega 3 fatty acids are essential in the manufacture and repair of neural tissue.
Taking them in ample amounts can lower the likelihood of the development of this clinical condition. These fatty acids are found in salmon, tuna, trout, and sardines.
Incorporating these foods into daily diet will boost cognition and memory and delay the onset of the brain decay.
Additionally, pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, copper, and zinc. These are vital for brain function and memory. Hence consuming pumpkin seeds regularly can boost brain development and repair and delay the decline.
Another food that has a protective role to play in offsetting this condition is turmeric. An expert in this field recommends:
“The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory linked to memory improvement and the building of new brain cells,”
Also, read How does Meghan Markle avoid digestive woes during travel?
Use it in some way in the diet daily and reap its usefulness.