OR obesity At the age of 35-65 years, it increases the risk of dementia by about 30% later in life, while according to a recent study, observance of the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of dementia by up to 23%. Interesting evidence quotes in an interview with the agency. FM and Tania Mandouvalou is the nutritionist-nutritionist Nicholas Paraskevi, who points out, among other things, that the antioxidants of the Mediterranean diet, that is, fruits and vegetables, protect brain cells from certain damage associated with Alzheimer’s disease. As he points out, research has shown that this type of diet can help maintain memory and cognitive functions.

The relationship between changes in weight and the risk of dementia is complicated

Can weight loss help in dementia? Mr. Friday is asked. “Studies have shown that healthy weight loss in middle age (between 40-60 years) can improve memory and attention. In people who were overweight (with BMI greater than 25), the loss of only 2kg was enough to benefit them. These results were measured in a few months, without the long -term effects being recorded. The research only examined cognitive skills and memory, without evaluating the risk of dementia. Other studies show that people who maintain healthy body weight are more resistant to brain changes caused by Alzheimer’s disease. However, the relationship between changes in weight and the risk of dementia is complicated. Weight loss can be an early symptom of dementia in some people, as dementia can affect nutrition management ability, leading to unintentional weight loss. In addition, weight loss is common in the advanced stages of dementia due to loss of appetite or chewing difficulties. “

There is no clear evidence that low intake of specific nutrients affects the progression of the disease

What should a person who has already been diagnosed with dementia to be careful in the diet? “Research shows that patients with a higher body mass index (BMI) have a better prognosis, which highlights the importance of adequate nutritional support. Energy and nutrients play a crucial role in brain health. It is well known that severe deficiencies in micronutrients, such as thiamine (B1), folic acid (B9) and vitamin B12, can cause cognitive disorders. There are also evidence that even more mild shortcomings can contribute to the deterioration of cognitive function. Epidemiological studies show that specific dietary patterns can reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment, while an unbalanced diet can increase this risk. However, at present, there is no clear evidence that the low intake of specific nutrients affects the progression of the disease. However, it is clear that nutritional support can help maintain the quality of life and functionality of patients. Therefore, special attention should be paid to maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding malnutrition. “

We do not recommend omega-3 supplements to prevent or correct cognitive impairment

O-3 fatty acids are important for brain health, as they are essential components, and also have anti-inflammatory effects, Mr Paraskevis says, to point out that there are epidemiological data showing that consumption of omega-3 fats. Acid and fish is associated with better cognitive function. “Nevertheless, studies of omega-3 supplements in people with dementia have not shown improvement in their cognitive function. On the contrary, it seems that they may have some results in the early stages of cognitive impairment, although this needs further confirmation. Therefore, based on the available data, we do not recommend the use of omega-3 supplements to correct cognitive impairment, or to prevent further deterioration in people with dementia. What we need to keep in mind is that people with dementia have an increased risk of having nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, it is important to consider the possibility of lack for each person separately. If there is no shortage, then there seems to be no reason to resort to specific supplements, and the best approach is to ensure adequate intake of all the necessary nutrients through a balanced diet. “

Weight measurement at least every 3 months

How can we ensure that people with dementia meet their nutritional needs is the next question asked to the nutritionist. “It is necessary to have a regular checking to detect the risk of malnutrition. Malnutrition is often underestimated, which is why nutrition experts and doctors agree that regular evaluation should be done, especially when someone with dementia is diagnosed. Malnutrition should be monitored when diagnosed dementia and repeated at regular intervals, as every 3-6 months, or when changes in appetite, or diet are observed. When there is an acute health condition, nutritional monitoring should be more common. In addition, it is important to regularly monitor the weight of people with dementia, as weight loss is one of the main signs of malnutrition and significantly affects people with mild to moderate dementia. It is recommended to measure weight at least every 3 months, and in the event of nutrition or health problems, measurements should be more common. In the advanced phases of dementia, however, weight monitoring can cause unnecessary pressure on carers and not be so useful. In these cases, the focus must be in the recognition of the individual needs of each patient and in the formation of a personalized care to support their diet as much as possible. “

Flavor, colors, texture variety and participation

One point where the nutritionist emphasizes is that given the high risk of malnutrition in people with dementia, “special attention should be paid to the provision of adequate amounts of energy and nutrients in a way that is attractive and pleasant to facilitate and encourage Food intake. Features such as appearance, taste, colors, texture and variety of foods play an important role, and it is necessary to take into account personal preferences. Meals based on individual needs, desires and resources, and including patients in their diet decisions, as much as possible, can increase the desire to eat and maintain pleasure from it. In addition to regular meals, snacks should be available whenever needed and offered at other times of the day if requested, as changes in eating habits may be observed during the day. “

Prevention for about 40% of cases with a healthy lifestyle

According to Mr. Friday, the role of nutrition in the prevention of dementia is important, “as according to the Lancet Committee on Prevention, Intervention and Decent Care About 40% of Dementia Cases could be prevented or prevented delay by approaching 12 risk factors during life. “And these factors are: lack of physical activity, alcohol, smoking, depression and social isolation, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, hearing loss, vision loss, craniocerebral injury Atmospheric pollution ».