For aging adults, in particular, a variety of health benefits are offered by certain minerals and vitamins. This includes minerals and vitamins to promote a high quality of life by enhancing mood, boosting memory, restoring energy, and more. Every day, you should consume the right amount of these nutrients and vitamins through supplements, beverages, or foods.
But what are the best memory-boosting vitamins and minerals for older adults?
Zinc
For an older adult’s brain function, this trace element is very important. In some cases, memory can be affected by inflammation which can, in part, be mediated through consuming enough zinc. By taking zinc supplements or eating foods rich in zinc, adults can benefit from the nutrient-provided neuroprotective effects. It also helps fight anxiety and depression. Cognitive impairment can increase if zinc is deficient. That leaves an adult at higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or dementia. Get your zinc through the following:
- Pumpkin
- Dairy
- Shellfish
- Nuts
- Legumes
- Eggs
- Whole grains
Magnesium
Are you an older adult taking vitamin B? For that vitamin to do its job, you’ll want to also get enough magnesium. To keep the brain functioning efficiently, both magnesium and vitamin B are crucial. In fact, long-term memory could be kept more functional with the right amount of magnesium. It’s also important for nerve impulse transmission. Neurological problems can result from deficient amounts of magnesium. Best sources:
- Dark chocolate
- Brown rice
- Almonds
- Bananas
Calcium
To help maintain brain function, one essential mineral is calcium. Certain neuron functions are better regulated in older adults the more calcium they consume. This can include neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability. Low calcium levels can result in poor bone density and the risk of memory loss. Calcium sources include the following:
- Some cheeses
- Seeds
- Yogurt
- Leafy greens
- Salmon
Vitamin E
Both memory and the mind, in general, can benefit from vitamin E consumption. Brain cells are protected by antioxidants which help keep free radicals free from oxidative stress damage. Alzheimer’s disease may also be staved off by vitamin E consumption. Its progression may be slowed for those already experiencing Alzheimer’s. From the foods we eat, vitamin E can be acquired in the following:
- Seeds
- Avocados
- Blueberries
- Bell peppers
- Spinach
- Nuts
The Best Way to Receive Proper Nutrition in Your Later Years – Green Tree At Westwood
Included in our senior living community is our Sensations Dining program, we provide a professional culinary team that treats residents to the freshest ingredients available, creating mouthwatering meals. At both special events and daily mealtimes, residents can immerse themselves in culinary delights and an environment modeled after fine dining restaurants. Prepared daily by our chefs, residents can look forward to delicious meals with options including international cuisine, homemade delicacies, and more.
