Nutrition is the first line of defense. In general, try to limit the amount of meat (especially beef and pork) and refined sugar consumed. Even more important, avoid processed foods as much as possible. Additives and preservatives are not “real food.” Instead, strive to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and up to a few servings of fish per week. Olive oil is preferable to vegetable/corn, and similar oils. Foods rich in Omega-3’s are helpful, such as flaxseed and flaxseed oil. A diet such as this will provide a rich source of antioxidants, which help prevent a number of complications associated with aging. It will also help lower “bad” cholesterol and raise “good” cholesterol, which can help prevent strokes and other threats to brain health. It also provides a more anti-inflammatory environment within the body. All of these things will help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and provide optimum brain health.

A further benefit to a diet such as this is improved cardiovascular health, weight loss (if needed), and reduction of many age-related complications. Look for cookbooks on “The Mediterranean Diet” to find recipes that follow these guidelines. Also, a good way to add flax to your diet is to use the whole seeds or ground seeds mixed into any baking batter, or sprinkled on cereal or yogurt. Whole seeds can be added as a topping for muffins, etc. Flax oil can be used as a dressing for salads. While flax oil provides Omega-6 as well as Omega-9 fats (other essential fats), it is highest in Omega-3, and that is the ratio most of us need to balance these fats in our diets.

There are other strategies for maintaining optimum mental health. We will feature some of these in upcoming posts.