Diet and nutrition in alzheimer’s disease and healthy aging

Abstract

Aging is a universally natural phenomenon which is associated with cognitive decline and several neurological disorders such as Alzheimer disease. As this phenomenon is inevitable, many factors affect the progression and development of age-associated cognitive decline. Among these factors, lifestyle pattern such as exercise and diet plays a major role in contributing to neurological fitness. In this chapter, we discuss the relationship and effects of food and nutrition over aging and Alzheimer disease. Mediterranean diet rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds is most efficient in delaying the onset and progression of age-related neurological disorders. Flavonoids and polyphenols are the major antiaging food component which also serves as antioxidants. These effectively reduce the generation of stress-induced reactive oxygen species. Also, omega-3 fatty acid such as docosahexaenoic acid is an essential fatty acid whose supplementation in the diet improves mental health..