Years of research have provided scientists with more information regarding the mystery of Alzheimer’s. Studies have revealed the physiological events that take place in the brain along with lifestyle factors that raise the risk of developing the disease. Along with being overweight and having diabetes or hypertension, diet may also be a contributing factor. There are various foods seniors might consider limiting or giving up to reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Red Meat

Red Meat contains an abundance of iron, which is necessary for building strong muscles and avoiding anemia. However, too much dietary iron, combined with the breakdown of the meat’s proteins, leads to free radical accumulation. The iron and free radicals travel to the brain and deposit in the gray matter, where they hasten cell damage. For this reason, seniors are advised to limit their red meat intake to once or twice a week.

Carbohydrates

Baked goods, pasta, and white rice cause swift rises in glucose levels and insulin production. Over time, a steady diet of these foods leads to insulin resistance. Elevated levels of insulin have also been shown to cause neuron damage. Unlike other cells in the body, neurons don’t need insulin to absorb glucose. Thus, elevated levels of insulin become toxic in the brain.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need Assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.

Sugar

Food and beverages sweetened with sugar cause the brain to have excessive levels of glucose, which encourages inflammation and poses a further threat to brain tissue. Researchers from the University of Alabama performed a study in 2007 to determine possible correlations between sugar and Alzheimer’s. In the controlled study, they found that laboratory animals with high-sugar diets had an increased number of plaques in their brain tissue compared to animals that weren’t subjected to sugar.

Processed Meats

Bacon, ham, hot dogs, and deli meats contain chemical compounds known as nitrosamines, chemicals that are known to stimulate fat production in the liver, which in turn raises the risk of clogged blood vessels in the brain. If blood flow in the brain is affected by narrowed or blocked blood vessels, neurons cannot effectively function. Additionally, processed meats may contain harmful microbes that could cause infections in older adults who have weakened immune systems. The subsequent inflammatory processes that occur during illness may damage delicate neurons. Red meats and processed meats are high in fat content, which leads to elevated LDL cholesterol levels and the subsequent development of plaques and potential blockages in cranial blood vessels.

Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of a highly trained professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Dallas, TX, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Processed Cheese Foods

A diet rich in Cheez Whiz, American cheese products, and mozzarella sticks leads to the development and accumulation of harmful proteins that damage neurons.

Microwave Popcorn

Although packaged microwavable popcorn is more convenient and less messy for older adults, the food harbors a potential risk. It’s packaged with a chemical known as diacetyl that has been shown to increase amyloid protein production. Other foods that contain the toxic compound include beer and margarine.

If you’re the primary caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you don’t have to go through it alone. Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Dallas Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. If you need professional home care for your loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Home Care Assistance today at (214) 363-3400 .

The post Foods That May Increase the Risk of Alzheimer’s appeared first on Home Care Assistance Dallas.