Why Sugar Is Not Good For Someone At Risk Of Dementia
If you have a senior loved one who may be at risk for dementia or dealing with memory loss already, it may leave you wondering what necessary actions need to be taken as soon as possible. Brain health is just as important as anything else and can affect one’s quality of life. For example, diet is something that should be taken into consideration especially when it can contribute to brain health among other areas of your loved one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Sugar is believed to be one of the culprits that can affect overall health. However, this is a fact that most people tend to overlook. Especially when it can cause adverse effects on your senior loved one’s brain health. Memory care communities have specially trained care staff that know full well about the necessary dietary arrangements your senior loved one may be accustomed to and do their best to make sure that sugar (whether it’s too much of it or not) is not included.
What Is The Link Between Sugar and Brain Health?
It’s been said that consuming high amounts of sugar can impact numerous areas of one’s health. Indeed, it can impact their weight and energy levels. However, it can also be a detriment to brain health as well. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to cognitive decline in older adults. Here are some facts that support this statement:
- High blood sugar levels can lead to blood vessel damage in the brain. This gives way to a reduction of oxygen flow and other essential nutrients that support its health.
- As the damage gets worse, it can lead to slower thinking, increased confusion, and memory problems.
- Inflammation in the brain is possible as it can contribute to the development of cognitive conditions such as dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease.
Even if your loved one does not have diabetes, consumption of sugar can affect brain health if consumed over a lengthy period of time.
Sugar and Alzheimer’s: How The Two Can Relate
While Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the most common forms, some medical professionals and scientists say that there is a “Type 3” that may exist, which may be known as Alzheimer’s. Specifically, they point out how the disease may be closely related to insulin resistance in the brain and its inability to use glucose that is key for energy. As a result, it can lead to the following issues:
- Poor concentration
- Brain fog
- Accelerated memory decline
The thing to remember is that sugar is not a direct cause of dementia. However, frequently consuming high amounts of sugar over the years can increase the risk and severity of dementia and other memory-related conditions.
What Are The Hidden Sugars In Daily Diets
Believe it or not, a daily diet can contain hidden sugars that neither you nor your loved one may know about. Even if they seem “healthy” on paper, many processed foods have these hidden sugars that can actually be a detriment. These can be found in the following:
- Salad dressings
- Breakfast cereals
- Juice or sweetened teas
- Granola bars
- Flavored yogurts
If you have a loved one who is at a high risk of dementia, it is important to make sure that the labels of each food they purchase or have in their cupboards are reviewed carefully. This will allow your senior loved one to decide what is good or risky for them. Plus, it helps to also cook simple meals that feature whole foods like lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables.
At memory care communities, culinary staff always prepare such foods that can be rich in nutrients, especially if they are beneficial for brain health. It is a prime example that in such settings, staff members are specially trained to understand what can promote brain health and what can harm it, especially if you have a senior loved one that may be dealing with a form of dementia that is progressing over time. A poor diet such as something that is high in sugar can accelerate the progression itself.
Looking for Exceptional Memory Care? Find It at Bristol Park at Cypress
Memory care communities such as Bristol Park at Cypress are committed to making sure your senior loved one is taken care of regularly. Especially when it comes to a diet that is free of sugars that can affect their condition.
With a team of care staff that understands such conditions like dementia and how it can accelerate the progression, they do their part to make sure that your loved one gets a well-balanced meal that supports their overall health. For more information on how Bristol Park can assist you and your loved one, contact us today.
