Alzheimer's & Microbiome Health

Factors like oxidative stress and chronic inflammation have been shown to contribute to developing Alzheimer's disease. Since the brain manages several systems in the body, like memory and decision making —  it is inevitable that many of us have an instinctive fear related to Alzheimer's disease and Dementia. What you choose to eat and drink and how you feed your gut microbiota plays a vital role in helping your brain function optimally and preventing cognitive decline. Gut dysbiosis is a major factor in Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Adopting the following anti-inflammatory guidelines can significantly help when it comes to mental sharpness.

• Adding in cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli and brussels sprouts.  which are high in B vitamins and carotenoids.
• Avoid eating ultra-processed, refined and manufactured foods. They are not only high in sugar and salt, calories and low in nutrients (Chips,  microwavable popcorn, canned sauces and pre-cooked meals). These items have all been shown to cause havoc on the gut microbiome triggering intestinal inflammation and leaky gut leading to an adverse effect on cognitive function.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables. A diet high in colourful produce and phytonutrients can help prevent inflammation in the brain and help reverse age-related short-term memory loss.
• Add in Omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seeds & fatty fish like Salmon and Mackerel are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids along with DHA which help your brain stay healthy by supporting brain blood flow and assisting in the synthesis and function of neurotransmitters.
• Include leafy greens, Collard greens, spinach, kale & rainbow chard. All high in multiple B vitamins, including pantothenic acid, thiamin, riboflavin which help promote the development of red blood cells that carry oxygen to the brain.
• Include Spices like turmeric, cumin, cinnamon. They are delicious and are loaded with polyphenols (beneficial compounds for memory and brain health and prevent cognitive decline).