6 BRAIN FOODS FOR SENIORS

When your stomach growls, you receive notice that it is time to provide your body with sustenance. However, hunger is much more than quieting down an active stomach. Your brain also needs to be fed to maintain robust cognitive health.

One of the most important features offered by an assisted living facility concerns an active social calendar. Interacting with other seniors is good for the brain, but is a full activities calendar the only way you can determine whether a senior living center in Denver promotes brain health? The answer is what you eat also plays a role in helping you maintain healthy cognitive skills. 

Let’s look at six brain foods for seniors.

Leafy Greens

Rich in B vitamins, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and arugula represent great food sources for delivering quick mental energy boosts. They also are high in antioxidants, which fight off free radicals to protect our brains from the negative consequences of stress. Leafy greens contain considerable levels of folate that helps prevent the cognitive decline caused by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Salmon

Salmon represents an abundant source of omega-3 fatty acids, which significantly contribute to vibrant brain health. High levels of protein and vitamin D do a great job of maintaining strong immunity. The American Heart Association suggests that we consume fish at least two times per week, especially if the fish is fatty like salmon. Salmon contains two types of fatty acids that benefit the health of our brains.

Dark Berries

Dark berries such as blackberries and blueberries are packed with the types of oxidants that prevent the development of cognitive decline. They also provide a food source that appeals to those who have a sweet tooth, without having to consume harmful artificial sweeteners. Rich in vitamins and minerals, dark berries represent a popular addition to cereals and fruit juices.

Nuts

Nuts, especially low-sodium nuts like almonds and walnuts, represent rich sources of the nutrients our bodies need to remain healthy as we grow older. They also are rich in the types of healthy fats that keep the brain humming along at a fast pace. With little to no carbohydrates, nuts help lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar levels. As with berries, you can sprinkle nuts on a wide variety of foods.

Eggs

You cannot go wrong with working eggs into your diet, as they are one of the most substantial sources of nutrients that help boost the energy of your brain. They contain 18 different vitamins and minerals, as well as are easy to digest in most types of recipes. With almost no carbs, eggs have enough protein to make them the ideal food source to start your day.

Avocado

Healthy monounsaturated fats help improve blood flow, and avocados represent a super-rich source of this type of fat. They also are rich in an antioxidant called carotenoids, which prevent oxidants from damaging the brain. Carotenoids help protect the brain against cognitive decline, which defines the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

Diet is an Integral Part of the Morningstar Lifestyle

You have many factors to consider before choosing one of the many retirement communities in Denver. One of the most important factors should be diet and nutrition, which play a pivotal role in ensuring your loved one maintains vibrant mental health. At our senior living center in Denver, our caregivers monitor individual meal plans that are based on strict dietary requirements. Since nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining strong mental health, our meals often incorporate the six brain foods for seniors.

Learn more by scheduling a tour at MorningStar at Observatory Park.