Right nutrition balance and nutrition fulfillment are important for people with dementia (ODD). The right nutrition can also help reduce the risk of dementia.
The Friday Coffee Break on July 5th, together with the Alzheimer’s Indonesia through ATZI Center, organized a seminar with the theme of “Nutrition and the Brain” and invited Dr. dr. Ray Basrowi, MKK as the speaker.
In his presentation, dr. Ray explained that brain was the key for prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of dementia. He stated that at least there were six pillars to prevent Alzheimer which were: doing regular exercise, social activities, well-balanced nutrition, brain stimulation, enough rest and under-control stress.
Ray said that at least 5 of 10 senior citizen had nutrition issues. The most common issue was the lack of protein. Seniors needed at least 30% more protein than regular people. He recommended that seniors avoid high fat food because this type of food would eliminate the key element in protein such as amino acid which was needed by the brain.
At least there were 4 nutrition sources introduced by dr. Ray, which was taken from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, as food which could be consumed and could boost brain, especially memory:
- Green vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower
- Types of berries and cherries, such as blackberries, blueberries and cherries. Berries and cherries are known for being rich of anthocyanin and flavonoid which improve memory
- Omega-3 fatty acid. People might directly think of salmon or tuna, which are popular for containing omega-3. However, according to dr. Ray, the snakehead fish (gabus) which can be commonly found in supermarkets is actually one of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acid, vitamin D and protein.
- Nuts are commonly safe to consume, unless they are mixed with other seasonings which will eliminate the primary benefits of nuts.
“Therefore, please remember to get enough sleep, avoid stress, consume animal protein especially fish, fiber, and fruits. Also pay attention to the health of intestine by consuming fermented food,” said dr. Ray.