Dementia and Alzheimers are now the leading cause of death in the UK. 850,00 people are living with dementia in the UK and that figure is expected to grow in the next 20 years. It is estimated that the global number of dementia deaths will increase by about 40% by 2030.
The good news is that there has been plenty of research into these diseases and how they can be curtailed or prevented by simple lifestyle changes.
The brain needs glucose to function, and so sugar is needed in our diets, but too much is damaging as we know. A far healthier option are the natural sugars of honey and maple syrup. Sweets cookies and cakes,contain a lot of sugar, but not the valuable glucose that is needed by the brain. In general, it is important that your diet contains a wide variety of nutrients, living on take aways is not an option,and eat organic when you can.
High quality dark chocolate is low in sugar and rich in antioxidants, and a small glass of red wine is recommended too.
Brain cells strengthen themselves when they are hungry, so diets, like the 5:2 are very good.
The people who live the longest and healthiest lives, consume less meat, and are active. The mediterranean diet is the best. Olive oil is very good, also being high in antioxidants.
Good diet and plenty of exercise are as always, the keys to good health as we age.
