Eat Well, Remember Well

By Brooke Strickland
Writer for FEP International

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that plagues millions of people across the globe. A new study released by Columbia University shows that one of the keys to decreasing the risk of developing the disease is by following a Mediterranean-style diet. After following 1,880 New York residents for an average of five years, those had the healthiest diets were 40% less likely to get Alzheimer’s. Those who were physically active on a regular basis were 37% less likely. However, there was a noted difference in individuals that had both good diets and exercised; they were 59% less likely to be diagnosed with the disease [1].

If you’re looking for ways to eat healthier, a Mediterranean style diet is a fairly easy way to incorporate some tasty items and healthy fats into your daily activities. So, what’s a Mediterranean diet?

- High consumption: olive oil, legumes, unrefined cereals, fresh fruits, and vegetables
- Moderate consumption: dairy products, fish, and wine
- Low consumption: red meat

A Mediterranean diet is generally made up of three courses, meaning you eat one thing after another, instead of piling everything onto one plate. This is important because it means you eat slower and give your body more time to digest your food. Some other important keys to this diet include:

- Make sure to get plenty of exercise
- Consume healthy fats such as olive oil and canola oil
- Season your meals with herbs and spices rather than salt
- Eat small portions of nuts
- Use butter sparingly

This way of eating is delicious enough to become a lifestyle of healthy living. And once you experience the myriad of menu options it has to offer, it just might become your favorite diet. Your body and your mind will thank you.

Reference

1. Prevention: Diet and Exercise Lower Alzheimer’s Risk. New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/18/health/18prev.html?_r=1&ref=research Accessed on the web August 17, 2009.