The neurologist Mercè Boada warns about nutrition in old age and ensures that insufficient nutrition in older adults accelerates muscle loss and directly affects brain health and memory.
Feeding in the stage of old age It is usually neglected due to loss of appetite or loneliness, which results in excessively light dinners lacking essential nutrients.
According to neurologist Boada, founder of Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, a diet consisting only of a fruit or a dairy product is insufficient to cover the caloric and protein requirements that the brain needs to function correctly and resist the advancement of neurodegenerative diseases.
The sarcopeniaor loss of muscle mass, is closely linked to brain fragility. When an older adult does not consume the necessary proteins, their body begins to weaken, which increases the risk of falls and reduces autonomy.
Boada points out that This physical weakness is a predictor of dementiasince a fragile body has fewer biological tools to protect neurons against oxidative damage and the accumulation of toxic proteins in the nervous system.
The nutritional approach must be proactive and not merely reactive to the disease. The neurologist insists that food is the main source of energy to keep synaptic connections active.
Recommendations to eat correctly and protect the brain in old age
To ensure a healthy old age, it is imperative that families and caregivers ensure that the diet is varied and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and legumes. These elements act as a protective shield for the brain.
Specifically, the doctor recommends a diet rich in eggs, legumes and fish, along with different kinds of vegetables and olive oil.
Dr. Boada emphasizes that the act of eating also has a social and emotional component that should not be ignored, since loneliness is usually the main driver of bad eating habits in this very vulnerable age group of society.
For this reason, in addition to promoting adequate nutrition, it invites socialize, continue learning and share moments with friends. In his words, it is “become vitally rich” to continue taking care of memory and mental health.
The hydration Adequacy is another pillar that is frequently omitted in traditional recommendations. Many times, mental confusion in older people is not a symptom of dementia, but rather a sign of severe dehydration.
Maintain a water balance along with a adequate caloric intake It allows the brain to process information more quickly. Prevention through a plate of food is, according to the expert, one of the most powerful and accessible tools to delay Alzheimer’s.
A balanced scene It must include nutrients that promote nocturnal cellular repair. The idea that «you need to eat less because you use less energy» is a common error that can lead to states of hidden malnutrition, affecting mental agility and the ability to concentrate.
