Brain Boosting Foods for Senior Citizens | The Inn at Belden Village

Nutrition is important at every age, but diet becomes an even bigger part of your health in the later years. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet will simply help support your overall health, but there are some specific types of food that can target the cognitive issues common in senior citizens.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach and kale are so easy to incorporate into your diet—simply toss them both in with your salads! These greens are packed full of folic acid and enzymes that strengthen synapses in the brain, boost neurotransmitters, and regulate water retention.

Fish

Many types of fish, particularly salmon and sardines, have been shown to include key ingredients that help slow mental degeneration that ultimately leads to Alzheimer’s Disease. Those key ingredients include the ever powerful omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D.

Berries

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, dark-skinned berries like blueberries contain vitamin C, manganese, vitamin K, and fiber. All of these elements together help fight off inflammation and the development of cancerous cells, lower cholesterol, control blood pressure, and improve cognitive functions. For a delicious snack, try freezing a bag of blueberries and you’ll have a cool treat when midday hunger strikes.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be great for snacks between meals, especially in a good trail mix. Luckily, flaxseeds and walnuts are two foods that make the brain-boosting list. While both are a great source of protein and fiber, flaxseeds are also high in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which help reduce inflammation and promote healthy brain cell structures. Walnuts offer a good source of calcium, iron, and zinc which all help you deal with stress and support cognitive functions.

Green Tea

Drinks like green tea and coffee that are rich in antioxidants have been shown to help fight age-related memory impairment. In addition, green tea is packed with amino acids, enzymes, carotenoids, polyphenols, catechins, and sterols that fight fatigue and boost brain functions.

Senior Health at The Inn at Belden Village

We strive to provide the highest quality assisted living care for senior citizens, and that includes making sure everyone receives healthy meals daily as well as physical activity to stay active. We also offer specialized Memory Care for those with Dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease. Contact us today to learn more.

Sources: A Place for Mom, Senior Lifestyle