Food for Brain Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that unhealthy diet, insufficient exercise, excessive drinking, smoking, and other health risk factors are related to cognitive impairment and dementia. The Rush University Medical Centre had proposed a new MIND Diet (Mediterranean-DASH diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) for brain health in 20152.
This diet has combined the nutritional components of the Mediterranean diet and DASH diet. It focuses on natural plant-based foods and restricts the intake of high saturated and trans fats foods such as fried foods, butter, and cake. Studies have shown that people who follow the MIND Diet can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by about 50% and can slow cognitive decline.
These foods are high in saturated fats, trans fats, or refined sugar. Excessive intake of these foods may increase the inflammatory response of the body and nerve cells in the brain. It may also increase total cholesterol and bad cholesterol levels, affecting cardiovascular health.
Features of the MIND Diet:
The above recommended portion varies from person to person, depending on their age, gender, activity level, health conditions and other health factors. It may not be suitable to patients with chronic diseases (especially renal failure), please consult your doctor or registered dietitian for further details.
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