Many people notice that as they grow older they feel that they are not as mentally sharp as they used to be.  For example, math word puzzles may take longer to solve and memories can take longer to retrieve which can be frustrating. The reason this occurs is as we age blood flow to our brain drops. The areas where the blood flow drops the most leading to mental slowdowns is in our frontal cortex which includes verbal fluency, the ability to find the words we want to use and executive functioning, our planning and organizing center. In addition, blood flow also drops in the parietal cortex which affects visio-motor performance and the medial temporal area which affects the ability to make new long term memories (American Psychological Association).  One tool that claimed to sharpen performance in everyday life and protect against cognitive deficits is Luminosity, a brain training tool. However, the company’s claims may have been unfounded and as a result they have to pay 2 million dollars to settle deceptive advertising charges (Federal Trade Commission). There are easier and are more scientific sounds ways to keep your brain healthy and you’re already doing it 3 times a day.  The Mind Diet claims that by eating foods from 10 food groups while avoiding “bad” foods you can improve your brain health. The MIND Diet stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. Limited research has shown that those on the MIND diet lowered their risk of Alzheimer’s by 54%. Below are the foods that have been shown to be good for the brain that are included in the MIND DIET

  • Green leafy vegetables (like spinach and salad greens): At least six servings a week
  • Other vegetables: At least one a day
  • Nuts: Five servings a week
  • Berries: Two or more servings a week
  • Beans: At least three servings a week
  • Whole grains: Three or more servings a day
  • Fish: Once a week
  • Poultry: Two times a week
  • Olive oil
  • Wine: One glass a day

There are also foods you need to avoid. On the diet you have to have less than 4 serving a week of red meat, less than a tablespoon of butter or margarine a day, less than one serving of cheese a week, less than 5 servings of sweets a week and less than one serving of friend or food a week. Unfortunately there currently is no concrete preventive measure to stave off issues in our brain as we age.  At some point we may need more consistent help in order to stay safe and live comfortably. If you or a loved one finds yourself needing longer term or short term care in the tristate area Sprain Brook Manor Westchester nursing home is there for you. 
This post is provided by Sprain Brook Manor Rehab which Provides unique opportunity to recover from medical procedures that result in true satisfying results. Getting you stronger and better every day. Contact Us today to receive more information.Disclaimer: The information provided in this post in not intended to be construed as health advice, nor should it be considered a substitute for obtaining individual medical counsel or consulting your physician.