How can you ensure you’ll have good brain health as you age?

“Even though we know the brain is one of the most important organs in our body, controlling our speech, movement, and moods, we don’t always think about how we can feed our brain better, the way we do our body,” said Rose Reisman - a registered nutritional consultant - in a recent webinar she hosted with Aspira Retirement Living. “Only five per cent of Alzheimer’s and dementia cases are genetic.”

Rose has years of experience as a registered nutritional consultant and she is committed to changing the eating habits of Canadians and teaching people how to eat according to Canada's new food guide. During the webinar Rose outlined several things seniors should keep in mind as they work towards improving their diet and making their mind healthier.

“Physical activity is key. For me, this is just part of my DNA,” Rose said, explaining that increased exercise helps enhance neuroplasticity, which is what allows our brain to change.

Rose also spoke about the importance of keeping up an active social life, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol.

“Challenge your brain… do what you like to do… change your routine and schedule. Changing your routine helps to build more memory and improve decision making and cognitive reserve.”

Rose went on to recommend the Mediterranean food guide, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oils, fish and beans. She also spoke about Canada’s 2019 food guide which recommends that half of your plate should consist of fruits and vegetables. Both guides recommend using plant-based proteins more often and limiting animal proteins to just a few times a week.

“We know right now that certain foods can boost your brain’s function and ward off cognitive decline,” Rose said. “You can slow your brain’s aging by seven-and-a-half years and delay the onset of memory loss.”

She also spoke about the MIND DIET, which is recommended by Alzheimer’s Canada and claims to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s by a whopping 53 per cent.

Want to learn more? View the full webinar today!