More good news about the Mediterranean diet & supplements for brain health
As many of you probably already know, Dr. Dominique Fradin-Read In a strong promoter of the Mediterranean diet for good health and longevity. Recent studies have confirmed the benefits of this well-balanced food plan for the prevention and even the treatment of various medical conditions. In this blog post, Dr. Read will emphasize the protective effects of the Mediterranean diet against cognitive decline. Our next blog post will address the connection between food and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
First, let’s applaud the Mediterranean for having been ranked again in January 2022 for the 5th year in a row as the No. 1 best diet overall by U.S. News. It is also ranked as the easiest diet to follow long term. Previously, we reviewed the significant impact of the Mediterranean diet to reduce inflammation, a major contributor to the aging process and the origin of most age-related conditions.
One of the main complaints among our patients is memory loss or focus/attention issues. As we get older it is relatively common to start forgetting names or to come into a room and suddenly not remember why we went in there. And it seems that since we have been isolated during Covid such complaints have become even more frequent– maybe because of a lack of stimulation and interaction with others than before.
The question that often comes is: “What can I do to improve my memory, Dr. Read?” and some patients appear really scared when they ask the question, which is understandable.
So how can we protect our brain from aging?
As often, everything starts on our plate!
A group of researchers in Scotland recently published a new study showing that the Mediterranean diet can keep our brain sharp as we age. Previous results from multiple randomized clinical trials already demonstrated the powerful effects of the Mediterranean diet in the development of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and various metabolic conditions; now we have evidence that it plays a crucial role in the slowing down of neurogenerative diseases.
Besides improving our diet what else can be done to help our brain health?
One should look at the levels of vitamins in the blood, particularly B12 and D as optimal levels of these vitamins have been associated with healthy cognitive functions.
So many products are advertised for the purpose of brain health, it is hard to choose one that really works. As always, Dr. Read only recommends products that have proven their efficacy in clinical studies; products that she uses herself as she knows the importance of keeping her brain sharp and having a good memory in her job. “As long as I will work as a physician, I owe my patients to stay intelligent,” she says smiling.
Below is the list of products that one can consider taking to support brain health. Please ask our providers if you want more information about their mechanism of action:
Prodrome Plasmalogen Neuro: The research on its benefits in cognitive decline and early Alzheimer's is overwhelming
NMN and/or NAD injections: Proven to enhance brain metabolism and protect against neuron degeneration and cognitive decline by acting on the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) a member of the brain-protective growth factors.
EPA/DHA essential: An Omega-3 fatty acids combination of polyunsaturated fats that provide many health benefits and is associated with a lower rate of cognitive decline linked to age.
Curcumasorb: A well-absorbed form of Turmeric that acts as an anti-inflammatory and protects against stress-induced degeneration of neurons.
Memory Pro: A combination of ingredients specially formulated to support acetylcholine a key neurotransmitter in the brain and to promote cerebral blood flow
Find some of these products in our online shop, or contact our office to purchase.
SOURCES:
https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/20344-mediterranean-diet-ranks-no-1-for-fifth-straight-year
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0891584921007383
https://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20210225/mediterranean-diet-could-keep-aging-brains-sharp