Fight Alzheimer's with a Brain-Healthy Diet

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The concept of a brain-healthy diet is a relatively new one. But it's one that many physicians -- including those at the Alzheimer's Association -- are recommending to their patients. We may not have a prescription cure for diseases like Alzheimer's. But there is evidence that, like other diseases, Alzheimer's may be preventable with the right diet. 

It makes sense. The brain is one of the body's more mysterious organ. But like the heart and colon, it thrives on the right nutrient balance. Feed it well and it may return the favor. If you have a history of Alzheimer's in your family like I do, you may be able to change your future by featuring these foods prominently in your diet. 

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Eat More Cholesterol

As Alzheimer's research soldiers on, doctors are discovering that cholesterol levels and Alzheimer's disease are more closely related than anyone ever thought. As it turns out, good HDL cholesterol may protect your brain cells from the ravages of Alzheimer's.

"But Dr. Iglehart, I thought I was supposed to avoid cholesterol." That's still true. "Bad" cholesterol -- also known as LDL cholesterol -- is still on the naughty list. Trade those foods with ones that are high in HDL cholesterol like peanut butter, liquid cooking oils, avocados, nuts and seeds. 

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Fight Protein with Protein

Researchers at the Columbia University Medical Center recently discovered that there is a link between the progression of Alzheimer's and the presence of beta-amyloidproteins. One way to lower levels of this dangerous is to combat it with another protein: fish.

Focus on cold water fish which are high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, halibut, mackerel, trout or tuna. To receive the benefits of these fish, eat at least one gram every day. By balancing out your diet in this manner you may be able to keep your beta-amyloid protein levels low enough to combat or prevent the spread of Alzheimer's.

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Fiber Up

Doctors harp on the importance of fiber because it's just that good for you. In patients with Alzheimer's in their family history, fiber lowers the bad cholesterol that leads to the plaque buildup associated with Alzheimer's. At the same time, it raises levels of the good cholesterol that clears out arteries and protect brain cells. 

Good fiber is easy to work into your diet. Switch to whole wheat bread and pasta, swap fruit juice for whole fruit or simply take a fiber supplement in the morning before your first meal. A few steps in the right direction can make a big difference in your overall prognosis. 

Dr. Sharon Iglehart

The idea of eating your way to a healthy brain is relatively new. Had my mother known about these tools in the fight against Alzheimer's, she could have started her fight against this disease years earlier. Now that we do know, I want to encourage you to take the first step towards preventing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia by making a few positive changes in your diet. 

If a change in diet has helped prevent or delay your or a loved ones symptoms of Alzheimer's, share your story with us in the comments section.