The foods seniors eat can affect the way their brains and bodies function, which is why they should develop healthy eating habits. Foods full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can stave off age-related conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, and keep seniors in excellent mental, physical, and emotional shape. Take a look at some of the foods seniors should avoid eating and learn why they increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Pasta
Insulin regulates proteins in the body, including proteins that form senile plaques, which cause neurological problems and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. Eating pasta (as well as white bread and cake) could cause insulin levels to spike and send dangerous toxins to the brain. To prevent high blood sugar, your aging loved one should avoid eating pasta made with white flour and choose whole wheat pasta or other healthy carbohydrates, such as brown rice and quinoa.
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Processed Cheese
Eating mozzarella sticks, canned cheese, and American cheese can have harmful effects on the body. Processed cheeses contain toxic proteins that can lead to the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain. When these plaques clump together between neurons, they can cause significant cell damage and prevent cell growth. Instead of eating these foods, your parent should consume fat-free, low-calorie cheeses.
Red Meats
The protein in meat can help seniors maintain strong bones and healthy muscles, but eating these foods—specifically red meats—could raise the risk of Alzheimer’s. Red meats can increase cholesterol and blood pressure levels, preventing blood from flowing to the brain. When this happens, your loved one could begin to experience symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s, such as memory loss.
The most harmful red meats for seniors to consume are:
• Hot dogs
• Bacon
• Ham
• Pork chops
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Microwave Popcorn
Diacetyl is a toxic chemical found in the butter flavoring used in many brands of microwave popcorn. Consuming this product could cause significant brain damage and lead to Alzheimer’s. The packaging microwave popcorn generally comes in also contains harmful chemicals that negatively affect the brain. The plaque buildup from these chemicals can also increase the risk of lung disease, a stroke, or a heart attack. There are healthy snacks, such as kale chips and fresh fruit, seniors can eat when they crave popcorn. They can also eat homemade popcorn instead.
Beer
The beverages your loved one consumes can also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. Most brands of beer contain nitrites, which are harmful chemicals that cause brain damage over time. Your loved one should drink beer and other alcoholic beverages in moderation if he or she is unable to stop drinking these items altogether. Instead of beer, your parent should have a glass of red wine. The resveratrol found in red wine is good for the heart, and it can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Montgomery Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. Rely on the professionals at Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at (334) 593-3988 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.