What Are the Best Foods for Brain Health in Seniors?
If you're curious about what are the best foods for brain health, don't be afraid to bite into the freshest ingredients. Healthy fats from fish, nuts, or seeds are excellent for seniors, but there are other options to chew on. Leafy greens and fruits also have nutrients that support cognitive functioning and brain health.
NIH data show that two-thirds of Americans deal with cognitive impairment by an average age of 70 years. By eating the right foods and keeping an active lifestyle in retirement, you can improve brain health.
Ormond in The Pines, a coastal community a few minutes south of Daytona Beach, can accommodate your dietary needs. Our Ormond Beach, FL, residents benefit from the on-site dining, where our chefs use the most critical and delicious ingredients. Learning about memory-supporting foods can help you maximize your golden years and savor each bite.
What Are the Best Foods for Brain Health?
Cognitive decline is a natural occurrence as adults age into their golden years, but what you eat can make a difference.
Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing meal indoors or outside, Ormond in The Pines has everything you need. Our residents benefit from help with dietary restrictions, as we consider the needs of aging individuals. Within our community, you can pick from independent or assisted living options (amenities included!) to make daily living more enjoyable.
Read below to learn what are the best foods for brain health as you discover our vibrant community!
Healthy Fats
Our team at Ormond in The Pines understands the importance of eating the right food to improve brain health for seniors. We encourage residents to try nutrient-rich dishes, and with help from our chef, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Eating with friends and family can make meals more enjoyable. Not only will you get brain benefits from each bite, but you spend more time socializing. Take a closer look at our dining areas and amenities to pick a favorite spot to enjoy meals with neighbors.
Salmon, mackerel, and tuna are packed with DHA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid. Healthy fats are necessary for brain functioning and structure, making them a great diet addition for older adults.
Olive oil, nuts, and seeds are other sources of healthy fats. These foods can be incorporated into your diet by swapping out unhealthy choices during meals (i.e., nuts instead of tortilla strips on a salad).
Leafy Greens
According to the USDA, around 90% of people aren't consuming enough vegetables each day. Leafy greens are a great food for the brain, as they contain numerous nutrients and antioxidants.
Here are a few reasons for biting into leafy greens:
- Increases folate
- Good source of Vitamin K & fiber
- Carotenoids to enhance memory and brain tissue
- Antioxidants to combat harmful free radicals
Each factor helps contribute to a healthy brain and better cognition. By talking to your healthcare team, you can maximize each bite of your meals.
Spinach and kale are popular leafy greens that have an abundance of health benefits. Collard greens, arugula, and lettuces are other leafy greens to consider incorporating into your diet.
Fresh Fruit
Ormond in The Pines is located in a prime region with year-round access to the most vibrant ingredients. This access allows our residents to consume avocados and berries, which are beneficial for the brain and cognition.
Strawberries and raspberries are great sources of nutrients, but blueberries win for the brain. Our dining options add berries and avocados to meals to enhance flavor profiles and accommodate dietary needs.
Depending on your senior diet plan, some fruits may need to be avoided. Grapefruit and high-sugar fruits can be harmful to the body and brain, especially if they interact with medications. According to Mayo Clinic, grapefruit and tangelos are risky to consume with certain prescribed meds.
Dining in The Pines
Senior nutrition and cognition go hand-in-hand, which is why we invest so much time and energy into dining. Ormond in The Pines offers restaurant-style dining for residents, with the freshest ingredients.
Our chefs use local ingredients to support the entire community and create healthy, diverse dishes. As adults age, diet restrictions and food changes may arise. With a dedicated team and skilled chef on-site, you'll get the nutrients your body and brain require.
Aside from tableside service and chef-prepared meals, we offer other amenities at Ormond in The Pines. Our goal is to make daily living simpler for residents, regardless of their age. From fitness areas to bistros and activity rooms, we have it all!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Beverages Are Good for Memory?
Real fruit juices can be just as good for the brain as biting into them. Try sticking to juice without added sugar or artificial ingredients. Juices and smoothies are often packed with antioxidants and vitamins, which impact cognition.
Which Vitamins Are Important for the Brain?
Vitamins D and K are associated with health benefits that are linked to the brain. These vitamins may reduce or delay cognitive impairment, which becomes more likely as adults age. Eating a diverse diet can ensure you get all the nutrients and vitamins you need, making it one of our top healthy aging tips!
Is Ormond Beach a Good Community for Retirement?
Ormond in The Pines is in a coastal community with unique living options, where we customize care for residents. The atmosphere and city amenities make this region desirable for retirees, along with beachgoers. Ormond Beach, FL, is a family-friendly city with historic sites and impressive parks.
Bite into Power Foods for the Brain in Ormond
As you uncover what are the best foods for brain health, our chefs are busy crafting delicious, nutritious meals. Ormond in The Pines is a close-knit community where adults can thrive in their golden years, while improving overall well-being.
Our vibrant community encourages residents to maximize each day and establish a healthy routine. We are proudly ranked #1 in a JD Power study, showing our dedication to customized care and residents. To ease your Florida transition, ask our team about the latest renovations and savings specials.
By touring Ormond in The Pines, you can embrace a calming atmosphere, where health and happiness take priority. To schedule a tour, contact our team at (386) 868-1494 or by filling out our online form!