Dementia and Nutrition

Caleb Druckenmiller & Dan Tokar

Introduction

Prevention of Alzheimers Disease

Dementia is an umbrella term that pertains to several different brain diseases. There are over 100
various types of dementia, yet they all affect the persons cognitive ability. Memory loss is a very
common side-effect experienced by those affected with dementia2,3.The risk of developing different
forms of dementia increases with age, and many types are progressive diseases that worsen over
time3. Mental abilities such as thinking and reasoning degrade in most forms of dementia4. Dementia is
often confused with normal aging, yet there are key differences. Loss of memory and concentration are
not necessarily part of the normal aging process4. In the year 2009, roughly 3.8 million Americans had
some type of dementia5. It is estimated that by the year 2030, over 20% of the population above age 65
will have some form of dementia4.

Omega-3 Fats: These unsaturated fatty acids protect against inflammation. They are found in
peanuts, walnuts, flax seeds, and certain types of cold-water fish, such as tuna, salmon,
mackerel and halibut4,7. These can also help memory as DHA and EPA can promote cognitive
function8,9.
B Vitamins: These vitamins play a key role in reducing levels of homocysteine, a toxic amino
acid that damages the temporal lobe of the brain4. B vitamins can be found in enriched grains,
fruits and vegetables. Vitamin B12 has positive affects on mental health and can be found in red
meats4.
Antioxidants: These protect against inflammation by fighting the oxidation process which
damages the brain. Antioxidants include vitamins A (beta-carotene), C and E. They are found in
leafy vegetables, fruits, almonds and beans4. These can also be fortified into various foods.

Summary and Overview

There are many different types of dementia.
Alzheimers is the most common of all types of this condition.
The incidence of it increases with age.
The older an individual becomes, the more likely they will develop dementia.
Adequate nutrition may be one of the best prevention factors against dementia.
Following a Mediterranean diet may be one of the preventative measures.
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins (especially B12) may decrease
the chance of developing dementia later in life.
Adherence to proper diet after diagnosis may reduce symptoms and improve cognitive abilities
for a longer period of time.
Strong social support is necessary for patients with dementia.

Mental Exercises: Maintaining brain activity slows cognitive decline and increases vitality.
Research shows that keeping your brain active may produce a larger pool of brain cells and an
increased capability of forming connections. Higher levels of education also have been found
to have a protective effect against Alzheimers disease, likely due to consistent mental
stimulation. Helpful suggestions to increase mental stimulation include reading, writing, solving
puzzles, playing games, taking classes or performing any other activity that may challenge the
brain10.
Physical Activity: Research have shown that exercise improves memory and inhibits cognitive
decline. It also has countless other health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health.
This makes physical activity important in the prevention of various types of dementia, as well as
many other diseases. Suitable exercises may include walking, running, bicycling, stretching,
playing sports with children or any other form of physical activity11.

Percent of adults 65+ with a type of dementia.

Clinical Applications for Dementia

Types of Dementia
Alzheimers Disease: This is the most common form of dementia, accounting for roughly 6080% of cases2,6. It is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and
overall behavior2,3. Early stages are characterized by forgetfulness, confusion, irritability, and
depression4.
Vascular Dementia: This is the second most common form of dementia, which results from the
blockage of blood flow to the brain2,5. Reduction of blood flow leads to insufficient amounts of
oxygen and key nutrients in brain cells, which causes a decline in cognition2,5. Vascular
dementia accounts for 12-20% of dementia cases5. Unlike many of forms of dementia, this one
may occur suddenly due to stroke or heart attack5.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies: This is a spectrum disorder that inhibits mental ability and
alertness2,5. It results in impaired perception and judgment. Delusions and hallucinations may
occur, along with disruption of autonomic functions such as sleep cycles, heart rate and
digestion2,5. Parkinsons disease is considered to be a form of dementia with Lewy Bodies5.
Huntingtons Disease: This is a neurological disorder that may progress into dementia. It is a
type of genetic muscle disorder that causes motor skill issues such as uncontrolled movements,
inability to process information, and emotional disturbances5.
Parkinsons Disease: This is a neurological disorder that decreases motor skill function.
Movement of muscles, including walking and other activities of daily living, are difficult to control.
Advanced stages of this disease can lead to dementia and cognitive decline5.

Epidemiologic research is the leading area to address the risk factors for all types
of dementia and cognitive decline7.
Placing more emphasis on Mediterranean diets and its similar counterparts in early
and late years can help reduce effects of dementia and Alzheimers disease7,9,12.
The high levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants lowers oxidative stress and
homocysteine levels which may contribute to risk factors for dementia6,7.
A recent study found that the fish components of the diet may be the leading
dementia reduction factor9. An adherence to this diet may lessen dementia related
symptoms later in life.
Nursing homes and any setting that may see a patient with dementia or dementia
symptoms should allow the patient to be in a highly sociable setting. Social
disengagement is a risk factor for those who may have risks for cognitive
impairment10.
Socialization is key for dementia patients and continued support is needed in
nursing homes and long term care4,7,10.
Exercising the mind as often as possible can yield positive outcomes. Assisted
living homes can use memory games such as crossword puzzles or Sudoku
puzzles. A recent study confirmed this by stating there are short term cognitive
benefits in utilizing the brain as much as possible10.