We are so fortunate to live in a time and place where food is plentiful and bountiful – to the point of almost being overwhelming.  The task for each of us becomes choosing the right foods that serve our bodies the best.  As we age, smart food choices become even more important to maintaining our overall wellbeing and to avoid certain illnesses.  At The Saybrook at Haddam, we work daily to offer residents the best foods and drinks for healthy bodies and brains – which is the backbone of the individualized care we provide.

Of course, when it comes to memory care, diet and nutrition are extremely important. We read a great deal of material on memory loss and brain function of the elderly, which is how we found this recent (and well researched) article from the alternascript.com blog. While many of the foods on this list may seem obvious, some of additional benefits are surprising (pulled from newer research from Vanderbilt University, Penn State and Harvard Health and other notable organizations).

Here’s the list – Please read the full article for details on the many benefits of each food

1.  Avocados – The Healthiest Fruit for Your Brain
2. Chamomile tea – Aids in a Good Night’s Sleep
3. Broccoli – Helps You Remember Verbal Instructions Better
4. Black Beans – Excellent for Brain Development
5. Blueberries – Improves Spatial Memory
6. Beets – Boosts Blood Flow in Brain
7. Dark chocolate – A Tasty Antioxidant
8. Coconut oil – The Most Versatile Brain Food
9. Celery – Prevents Inflammation of Brain Cells
10. Eggs – Excellent Source of Vitamin D
11. Salmon – Abundant Source of Omega-3 Fats
12. Walnuts – Improves Thinking Abilities
13. Whole Grains – Reduces the Risk of Brain Diseases
14. Olive oil – Fights Age-related Brain Problems
15. Spinach – Best Vegetable for Memory and Focus
16. Red wine – A Glass Full of Flavonoids and Antioxidants
17. Pumpkin Seeds – Very Useful in Improving Mood
18. Blackcurrants – Helps Keep Dementia and Alzheimer’s Away
19. Turmeric – The Magic Spice Known for Healing Abilities
20. Tomatoes – Excellent Source of Lycopene
21. Rosemary – Keeps Neurodegeneration of the Brain at Bay

Each food on this list is so tasty and versatile – which should make everyone happy. If you are unfamiliar with any of them, simply search up a recipe with the food listed as an ingredient and you will be surprised at the results!  Be sure these foods are always in your kitchen (and on your shopping list) so it is easy to add them into daily meals.  Working as many of these foods as possible into your diet will help you and your family enjoy wonderful benefits to the brain in all stages of life!

For a personalized tour of The Saybrook at Haddam independent retirement, assisted living, and memory care community, please fill out the form below or contact Jennifer Armenia at 860-345-3779.