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Preventing dementia – an article by our Nutritionist, Nicola Seabrook
September 30th, 2022
Preventing Dementia
Alzheimer’s now causes more deaths than heart disease and the most common cancers. It is a diagnosis we all fear and it can be heart breaking to watch a relative suffer with a range of symptoms that dementia brings.
However, pioneers working in this area of research are hopeful that it can be prevented and the charity Food for the Brain is currently launching a manifesto called ‘Alzheimer’s is Preventable’.
Many of the ways in which we can reduce the risks of cognitive decline are linked to nutrition and so I thought I would summarise them here.
Keeping blood sugar levels stable
Type 2 Diabetes almost doubles the risk for dementia and this reflects the damage associated with having elevated blood sugar levels. Even people who are not diabetic but who have raised blood sugar levels are at an increased risk.
You can ask your GP for an HbA1c test and this can identify whether you have consistently elevated blood glucose levels. Following a low GL diet can help to keep blood sugar levels stable.
Fish oils
Long chain fatty acids in oily fish have an important role to play in brain health. They keep cell membranes fluid and reduce inflammation. Population studies show that those who consume large amounts of fish are less likely to develop neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Igennus are a company in Cambridge who offer a home blood testing kit to measure your omega 3 fatty acids.
Phospholipids found in eggs and seafood are also thought to have benefits for cognitive health.
Vitamin D
A large study of elderly people in France found that vitamin D deficiency was significantly linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Vitamin D is involved in neurotransmission and protection of brain cells.
Homocysteine levels
Raised levels of Homocysteine ( an amino acid in the blood) have been linked to cognitive decline in several large trials but the good news is that lower levels can achieved through supplementation of vitamins B12, B6 and folate. A homocysteine level can be measured by your GP.
Antioxidants
Lastly, a good intake of fruit and vegetables can help reduce our risk of Dementia. These plant foods contain large quantities of vitamins A, C and E which protect our brains from inflammation. They also contain other nutrients including polyphenols and flavonoids. Good sources of flavonoids are cocoa, green tea, red wine and berries.
Consultation
If you would like a consultation to discuss and find out recommendations for your personal situation please contact the centre to arrange an appointment with Nicky Seabrook BSc.Dip.IONmBANT or email Nicky at nicky@theseabrooks.co.uk