According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 9 people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer's Disease (AD). As there is currently no cure for AD, we can only focus on preventative measures in order to decrease our chances of getting AD as we age.
Alzheimer's is caused by both modifiable (such as diabetes, smoking, obesity, depression, diet, etc.,) and non-modifiable risk factors (age, genetics, sex, etc.,). Although genetic factors are important, an estimated ⅓ of AD cases are attributed to modifiable factors, which highlights the importance of prevention.
Western vs. Mediterranean Diet
Western Diet (WD):
- Over-consumption of pro-inflammatory foods such as high-fructose corn syrup, glucose, and sodium.
- Abundance of red meat, dairy, and saturated fatty acid, which are associated with cognitive decline when in excess.
- Many processed foods, which reduce healthy fats, antioxidants, and neuroprotective nutrients.
- Refined carbs, added sugars, white bread, refined oils, etc.
- Lacks nuts, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables; this leads to a lack in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
These contributing factors are associated with obesity, high cholesterol, heart disease, hypertension, and T2DM, which are all modifiable risk factors that can contribute to the development of Alzheimer's.
Mediterranean Diet (MD):
- Emphasizes whole, minimally processed produce and healthy fats, abundant fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and extra-virgin olive oil.
- Incorporates moderate intake of fatty, non-fried fish, lean white meat, low-fat dairy, potatoes, and eggs.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamins C and E, folate, and numerous minerals that are neuroprotective.
The MD has been studied extensively for its positive effects on the brain, and there is growing evidence that the nutrients provided by the MD provide neuroprotection by mitigating AD pathology and modifiable risk factors. This diet provides antioxidants, inflammation-reducing nutrients, and omega-3s, amongst countless other positive attributes.
Research shows that an adherence to the MD is strongly associated with reduced cognitive impairment and risk of AD. A recent study predicts that early implementation of the MD could potentially reduce Alzheimer’s cases by 9 million within the next 4 decades.
The Problem
The issue is, however, that changing your diet completely can be very difficult. Many of us lead busy lives and may not have time to cook at home, but many of the meals we get from fast food or sit-down restaurants are full of the processed and pro-inflammatory foods we mentioned earlier. It can be very discouraging to try to make a change when the change is not so easy to incorporate.
The Power of Supplementation
Luckily for us people of the modern age, we have tools that can help us reach our nutrition goals with convenience. Supplementation is a great way to fill in the gaps your diet is missing.
Our Phyto Foundation™ is a greens powder containing a nutrient profile equivalent to FIVE servings of vegetables and fruits in the convenience of one scoop. A simple addition like this to your daily routine could revolutionize your health. Phyto Foundation delivers key vitamins and minerals, organic fruit and vegetable extracts, herbal immune and detoxification enhancers, and seven tested strains of probiotics to ensure your body receives comprehensive nutritional support for optimal health and vitality. Fruits and vegetables contain a wide range of phytochemicals essential for the function, maintenance, and rejuvenation of the human organism. This outstanding formula delivers the foundation for a healthy Mediterranean dietary pattern proven to maximize excellent health. To further align with the Mediterranean diet, combine Phyto Foundation with your favorite 3Care Omega-3 product as part of your daily regimen
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