Research Finds Strong Connection Between Inadequate Nutrition and Faster Alzheimer’s Advancement
Findings highlight nutrition’s role in Alzheimer’s progression, suggesting that dietary interventions may help slow the decline in patients.
A recent study has uncovered a significant connection between nutritional status and the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease. The research reveals that individuals with Alzheimer’s tend to have significantly poorer nutrition compared to those without the condition, and that nutritional status deteriorates as Alzheimer’s progresses.
Study Findings Explained
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease were significantly more likely to exhibit signs of malnutrition compared to those with normal cognition. Research has shown similar results, with up to 32% of dementia patients being malnourished and 47% at risk for malnutrition,” stated Laura Ali to The Epoch Times. Ali is a registered dietician, culinary nutritionist, and author of the book MIND Diet for Two.
Why Does Alzheimer’s Make Malnutrition Worse?
Malnutrition is a common nutrition-related issue faced by individuals with Alzheimer’s.
“It’s important to note that malnutrition is quite common in dementia, and that dementia itself may contribute to poor nutrition. In many cases, it may be challenging to determine whether malnutrition is a cause or effect of dementia. Given that dementia typically affects an older population, other factors contributing to malnutrition may also be present,” explained Leon Barkodar, MD to The Epoch Times. Dr. Barkodar is a double-board certified neurologist at Neurology Los Angeles in Los Angeles, California.
Some individuals may be taking multiple medications that can alter the taste of food, further complicating the issue,” added Ms. Ali.
How Good Nutrition Can Enhance Cognition
Cognitive health involves various factors such as thinking, learning, memory, motor function, and emotional regulation, all of which can be directly impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.
“When dementia is suspected, most neurologists will also check for vitamin/nutritional deficiencies such as B12 and folic acid levels, further emphasizing a nutritional aspect,” explained Dr. Barkodar. “Recent studies have also indicated that a daily multivitamin may help reduce the risk of dementia.”
“Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, as well as lean protein sources like legumes, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia. Though the specific mechanisms are not fully understood, these foods are believed to contain nutrients that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, while helping maintain clear blood vessels to prevent plaque buildup,” detailed Ms. Ali.
“Extensive studies have shown that individuals adhering to the MIND diet experience a slower rate of cognitive decline,” stated Ms. Ali. “This diet is flexible, focusing on brain-boosting foods like berries, leafy greens, whole grains, seafood, legumes, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, while limiting saturated fats, fried foods, and sweets.”
One notable limitation of the study was the lack of specific details on which foods within the Mediterranean or MIND diets participants consumed to achieve their rankings. Future research focusing on participants’ dietary intake might provide deeper insights into how nutrition impacts Alzheimer’s disease progression.
Nevertheless, early nutritional intervention appears crucial in mitigating the detrimental effects of malnutrition in Alzheimer’s patients.