The MIND diet is a blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, and it’s a great option for seniors who want to boost their physical and mental health. Long-term studies from a variety of organizations have revealed that the MIND diet reduces the risk of many different ailments and disorders. Here is a closer look at some of the biggest benefits of the MIND diet.
1. Adds More Antioxidants to the Diet
A senior’s cells are constantly being bombarded by free radicals, and these molecules can do an incredible amount of damage when left unchecked. Antioxidants combat free radicals and prevent damage. The MIND diet is filled with antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, nuts, seafood, and leafy green vegetables. The diet also restricts the intake of foods that might introduce new free radicals into the body.
Switching to the MIND diet is just one of the many ways older adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Green Valley, AZ, Embrace In-Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Prevents Brain Shrinkage
Brain shrinkage is a natural part of the aging process, but quite a bit can be done to slow it down. A recent study published in the journal Neurology reported that the MIND diet can drastically slow brain shrinkage after the age of 70. More research needs to be done on the subject, but some neurologists believe this diet prevents the general inflammation that kills off brain cells.
3. Facilitates Weight Loss
Obesity has been linked to many serious health conditions ranging from heart disease to depression. It’s important for seniors to stick to a diet that keeps them at a healthy weight. The MIND diet limits the consumption of processed sugar, simple carbohydrates, and other common ingredients that lead to weight gain. The healthy fats and complex carbohydrates in this diet can keep seniors feeling fuller for longer.
Some seniors need help switching to a nutritious diet. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Embrace In-Home Care, a leading provider of home care. Green Valley Embrace In-Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. Enhances Cognitive Function
Sticking to a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to boost cognitive function. Without the proper fuel, the brain can’t replace damaged cells and synapses. Practically all of the foods found in the MIND diet promote healthy brain function, including berries, olive oil, bright vegetables, and fresh fish.
5. Reduces the Risk of Cognitive Disorders
Even though doctors know quite a bit about what causes dementia, this group of disorders is still extremely common among the elderly population. According to the World Health Organization, over 47.5 million seniors are living with dementia worldwide. Multiple studies have revealed that the MIND diet may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
6. Makes the Skin Look Younger
Fine lines, wrinkles, and many other age-related blemishes develop when the body can no longer produce an ample supply of collagen and elastin. In addition to protecting the skin from free radicals, the MIND diet also triggers the production of vital proteins. After sticking to this diet for a few months, seniors might notice their skin appears fuller and more toned.
Preparing nutritious meals for older adults can be a challenging job, especially if you have other important tasks to tend to. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Green Valley, respite care is available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At Embrace In-Home Care, our respite caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one manage everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break. Call us at (520) 625-2050 today to schedule a free in-home consultation.