Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that damages areas of the brain involved in intelligence, judgment, behavior, language and memory. It is the most common form of mental decline in senior citizens.  The disease impacts not only memory, but behavior, ability to think, and the ability to function from day to day for millions of Americans. It is usually diagnosed at age 70 or older.

Recent scientific studies suggest that diet may affect the risk of Alzheimer's disease.  If you have the responsibility for the care of a senior at home, maybe your dad or mom, you probably prepare meals for him or for her.  You may be able help with a diet focused on brain health.     

Food does matter to your brain. A great many studies connect specific nutritional factors and dietary habits to increased risk for Alzheimer's disease or cognitive decline. A low-fat diet rich in antioxidants including vitamins E and C throughout life may provide good protection against Alzheimer's and a large range of other diseases.
 
Consider the following information when preparing meals for your older family members:

1)   Low-fat diets are associated with decreasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Choose principally lean meats (fish and poultry) and fruits and vegetables.  People who eat a diet higher in fat and sugar, tend to have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's.
 
2)   Diets rich in foods containing vitamin E seem to help protect against Alzheimer's in some people. These foods include green leafy vegetables, nuts, vegetable oils, and whole grains. However, some studies have found that taking vitamin E supplements are not as effective. The best way to get the protective benefit against Alzheimer's symptoms is to get the vitamin from foods.
 
3)   Diets should include vitamin B as well. Why? Typically, Alzheimer's patients have reduced B12 levels and they’re often deficient in B1, B2, B6, and B12. These vitamins have been shown to lower levels of homocysteine, a chemical that appears to increase the risk for both Alzheimer's disease and heart disease. B vitamins come from different natural sources, including turkey, bananas, lentils, liver, potatoes, and tuna.
 
4)   Magnesium is also an important mineral for brain function.  A reduced magnesium level overexcites the brain's neurons and results in incoherence.  Whole grains, wheat bran, defatted soy flour, and nuts contain large amounts of magnesium.
 
5)   Green tea consumption on a daily basis may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.  An antioxidant found in green tea seems to prevent the development of amyloid fibrils, a toxic protein associated with both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
 
Following the "brain healthy" suggestions above will not only reduce risk for developing Alzheimer's disease, but a diet high in vitamins E and C and low in fats and cholesterol can also decrease risk of developing cardiovascular disease or of having a heart attack or stroke.  So encourage family members of every age to eat well at every meal.