Eat smart for your brain -- a dietitian answers your questions about dementia

You are what you eat! This old adage couldn't ring more true for maintaining your brain health. A healthy diet protects against dementia and improves focus and concentration. Nicole Shuckett, a registered dietitian, explains why good nutrition is not only healthy but also a smart move.

What kind of diet best supports brain health?
More and more research shows that a diet rich in antioxidants and DHA, a type of fatty acid, is important for overall brain function and development. Spinach, blueberries, salmon, tomatoes and milk are great brain boosters.

For someone already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, what kinds of changes to their diet would you recommend?
If they're in the early stages, they should follow a well-balanced diet based on Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating and make sure they eat plenty of bright-colored fruit and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean meats.

As Alzheimer's progresses, what kind of changes can be expected in their eating habits?
It really depends on the individual. I've seen clients who have suddenly stopped eating a favourite food or meal. That's because as we age, our sense of taste changes. Others may also start craving salt or sugar. I've seen clients heap spoonfuls of sugar on macaroni and cheese, while others eat only foods of specific colour.

Because changes occur through the progression of the disease, it's important to keep track of a person's weight and the kinds of foods they're consuming. Some people may gain a few pounds while others may lose some. Their diet may need to be adjusted either with supplements or eating smaller, more frequent meals.

Since people with Alzheimer's tend to be more alert in the morning, it's also wise to schedule calorie-rich foods at breakfast and at lunchtime, and stick to lighter meals in the evening.

As the disease progresses, swallowing can also become a serious issue. Others may get confused if they see a lot of food on the table so I usually recommend that you serve one course or even one item at a time.

Do you have any dietary advice for caregivers?
They should eat according to Canada's Food Guide and take the time to enjoy their meals. Poor nutition or skipping meals will only put their health and their ability to look after a loved one at risk. A good tip is to organize regular lunches with a friend or even organize get-togethers with other caregivers.

How does your work help people with the disease?
I've always had a deep interest in older people maybe because I had such a wonderful relationship with my grandparents. I've also experienced the impact of Alzheimer's. My great grandmother as well as my husband's grandmother died of the disease. I often felt that if we left everyone with the disease on their own, they would live on tea and toast only.

As a dietitian I think I'm helping them focus on something they can enjoy. Food is such an integral part of our lives. Can you imagine a birthday party without a cake?  The smile on their face after they've eaten cake at a loved one's birthday is truly golden. They may not know whose birthday it is, but they know that having cake is for something special.

Nicole Shuckett is a registered dietician living in Toronto. She currently works at the ALS and Stroke Clinic at Sunnybrook Hospital. She also has a private practice counseling mostly older clients as well as the general public. Previously, Nicole spent 13 years at Baycrest.
  
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