Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that results from the complex interplay of multiple mechanisms which, to date, have not been fully understood . Find out what are the main diets and nutrients involved!
There are certain eating habits and nutrients for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease that can slow the development and progression of the disease. However, remember that this disease is chronic and incurable to this day. The only thing that can be done to delay its onset is to improve lifestyle habits, although the genetic component plays an important role.
Below we present a series of dietary strategies that may be helpful in reducing the incidence of this condition. They are backed by science, although this does not mean that their implementation will prevent its occurrence. Take note.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
For starters, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common dementia in older people, affecting 1 in 4 people over the age of 85.
The decline in cognitive function results from the interaction of several factors:
Age
Environment
Educational level
Genetic vulnerability
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases has increased dramatically due to the proportion of older people in the world and, to some extent, due to eating habits that produce an environment conducive to neural damage.
Risk factors for the development of Alzheimer’s disease
Although its origin is still unknown, it is known that oxidative stress, dysfunction of mitochondria (cell organelle) and inflammation are central factors in this disease. Specifically, excess free radicals cause damage to DNA, lipids and proteins, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. Additionally, increased permeability of the intestinal and brain membranes may increase the buildup of toxic substances that increase the risk of developing the condition, according to research published in the journal F1000Research.
The main disorders associated with this damage are cardiovascular risk factors:
Obesity
Dyslipidemia
Arterial hypertension
Insulin resistance and diabetes
Interaction between nutrition and Alzheimer’s disease
Several authors have explored the use of food components and the role of different eating habits in the development and progression of this neurodegenerative disease.
Specifically, the current diet, such as the Western diet, is associated with the high incidence and prevalence of chronic degenerative diseases. Indeed, it promotes an inflammatory environment in the body.
Molecular mechanisms and nutrients for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease
Currently, it is known that certain nutrients interact protectively against many factors in the development of the disease. In particular, the role of omega-3, vitamins E and B, as well as choline and uridine in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease has been studied.
However, clinical evidence for the impact of isolated supplementation of these nutrients on Alzheimer’s disease is still insufficient. Therefore, diets containing functional products have been studied to address many risk factors.
Mediterranean diet
The scientific literature refers to this diet as a potential neuroprotective treatment. It is known that the Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and vegetable fatty acids.
The Mediterranean diet is a dietary model, because it is rich in:
Monounsaturated fatty acids (mainly olive oil)
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (found in fish)
Many antioxidants: sulfur compounds, anthocyanins, catechins, flavonoids, indoles and lutein
Vitamins A, complex B, D and E
Cardioprotective minerals: calcium, magnesium and potassium, as well as iodine, sodium and selenium
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