Prevent Memory Loss with Diet

August 13, 2008

You are what you eat, and that goes for your brain, too. New research shows that a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol zaps your memory. It impairs short-term or “working” memory, the information you need to have at your fingertips to solve problems. It interferes with structural proteins that affect how nerve cells function. And it contributes to inflammation in the brain, which is linked with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. (Moore, AB et al. J Alzheimer’s Dis, 14:2;133-145.)

To keep your brain sharp, here’s what you should do.

• Substitute fish and fish oil for saturated fats. (Eat salmon, not bacon.)

• Eat lots of vegetables and fruits. Their antioxidants protect your brain.

• Eat high-quality whole grains. Avoid white flour and sugar, but also avoid a low-carb diet. Both can lead to fuzzy thinking and irritability. For a sweet, have dark chocolate, which increases blood flow to the brain.

• Get enough water. Even slight dehydration can lead to confusion and memory problems.

• Exercise. It increases blood flow to your brain, and is consistently linked with better brain function.

• Take brain-boosting supplements. Those with the strongest supporting evidence: green tea, fish oil, gingko, alpha lipoic acid, curcumin, and acetyl-l-carnitine.

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia the same way you do heart disease and cancer—with exercise, good nutrition and top-quality supplements.

QUICK TIP: According to Jean Carper, what you eat can help prevent Alzheimer’s. Learn More. Also read our Special Report: Natural Ways to Prevent Alzheimer’s

Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.