From the Guidelines
Role of Protein and Muscle Mass in Preventing Alzheimer's Disease
Maintaining adequate protein and muscle mass is crucial in preventing Alzheimer's disease. It is recommended to consume a protein-dense diet with 0.4 g/kg body weight of high-quality protein at two or more meals every day to preserve muscle mass and prevent sarcopenia and frailty 1.
Key Recommendations
- Consume high-quality protein foods in adequate quantities
- Include strength training exercises to maintain muscle mass and blood glucose control
- Eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help prevent cognitive decline 1
- Consider vitamin D supplementation, as it may have benefits for overall brain health, although individual needs may vary 1
Additional Considerations
- Regular physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation are also important for overall brain health
- A diet rich in high-fibre, low-free sugar carbohydrate foods, healthier fats, and fortified foods can help achieve nutrient goals and support overall health 1
- Adequate hydration is essential, with women needing at least 1.6 L and men needing at least 2 L of fluids per day 1
Importance of Consultation
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements or medications, as individual needs may vary.
From the Research
Role of Protein and Muscle Mass in Preventing Alzheimer's Disease
There is limited direct evidence on the specific role of protein and muscle mass in preventing Alzheimer's disease. However, the available studies suggest that:
- A healthy diet and lifestyle can influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease 2, 3, 4, 5
- Nutritional elements, such as vitamins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, can promote cell health, regeneration, and anti-aging processes, which may help interrupt the pathogenic pathways in Alzheimer's disease development 6, 3, 5
- Dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, and the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet, have been related to brain protection and Alzheimer's disease prevention due to their high content of neuroprotective bioactive compounds 5
- Intermittent fasting (IF) or calorie restriction (CR) may promote hippocampal neurogenesis, activate adaptive stress response systems, and enhance neuronal plasticity, leading to motor and cognitive improvements in animal models of Alzheimer's disease 5
Key Nutrients and Dietary Patterns
Some key nutrients and dietary patterns that may be beneficial in preventing Alzheimer's disease include:
- Huperzine A, ursolic acid, vitamins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids 6, 3, 5
- Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and MIND diet 5
- Intermittent fasting (IF) or calorie restriction (CR) 5
Importance of Nutrition in Alzheimer's Disease Prevention
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the prevention and management of Alzheimer's disease, and:
- A healthy diet can influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease 2, 3, 4, 5
- Nutritional status and food intake patterns should be considered in the management of Alzheimer's disease 3
- Individualized nutritional interventions can be an effective tool for reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease, especially as part of a clinical management plan 4