Top Five Dietary Guidelines to Help Manage Symptoms of Dementia

By Esther Dacamay

Although there is no cure for dementia, the effects of dementia could possibly be reversed if diagnosed and treated in its earliest stages. Much of the treatment has to do with diet.

Elderly adults who do not receive the proper amounts of vitamins and minerals in their daily diet will begin to exhibit signs of dementia. It is imperative that an accurate diagnosis of this disease is made by a medical professional before pharmaceutical drugs are prescribed. In addition, diet plays a major role as it is the foundation for which our bodies build strength against ailments and disease.

Listed below are the top five diet and nutrition guidelines essential in fighting the effects of this debilitating disease.

1) Hugh Fiber, Low Fat - Adding high fiber foods such as millet, brown rice, seeds, nuts, pressed oils, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and low fat foods is very beneficial in the fight against dementia. In addition, it is very important to remember to eliminate saturated fats from your daily diet without removing essential fatty acids such as omega 3s.

2) No Processed Food - Any food that comes in a box really can't be considered food. In addition, foods such as hot dogs and sausages are really processed foods. These are very bad for the body. Instead, implement the benefits of foods that actually resemble their 'natural" state. Organic foods contain live enzymes that are very beneficial to the body. Furthermore, it is important to implement foods high in antioxidants into your diet. These include zinc, selenium, carotene and flavonoids. There is a simple saying to help you remember; live food - Live body, dead food - dead body.

3) Brain Power - It is very important for the neurotransmitters in our brains to be fed. This can be done by incorporating foods that contain Acetyl-choline. Foods that contain this beneficial element include beans, liver, whole grains, foods rich in chlorophyll, soy, lecithin and egg yolks.

4) Protein - Having a breakfast rich in protein is highly beneficial. A whey smoothie or soy smoothie can contain lecithin and ground flaxseed. To achieve mental acuity, partake in a high protein lunch comprised of a salad and a tuna or salmon sandwich. To enjoy a relaxing, restful night's sleep, try utilizing a high protein dinner comprised of spaghetti made from brown rice with ground turkey and a low sat sauce.

5) Keep It Broad - A low-calorie diet of 1500 " 2000 is best. Select your nourishment from a broad cross-section of foods to include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains (brown rice, soy beans, oats, millet, buckwheat). In addition, take a high-potency multiple vitamin on a daily basis in order to prevent nutrient depletions that are associated with this debilitating disease. - 17268

About the Author:

Esther Dacanay is a highly regarded writer and editor for various websites and magazines. She is a featured writer on Clivir.com where she shares her knowledge about Dementia Symptoms and What is Vascular Dementia on Clivir.