The importance of nutrition in preserving cognitive function as we age cannot be overemphasized. Flavanols are among the many bioactive substances that can be present in food, and they have shown promise as agents that may improve cognitive performance. These naturally occurring substances, which are prevalent in several fruits, vegetables, and drinks, are now known to support brain function and may prevent seniors’ cognitive decline. Understanding this and how to incorporate this information helps both loved ones and the senior home care team enhance their daily lives.
Understanding About Flavanols
The flavonoid family of polyphenolic chemicals, which includes flavanols, is well-known for its antioxidant capabilities. Flavonols are present in many plant-based foods, but they are especially abundant in cocoa beans, tea leaves, apples, berries, and grapes. Epicatechin and catechin are the flavanol kinds that have been investigated the most for possible cognitive advantages.
What Is the Relationship Between Cognitive Function and Flavonols?
According to research, flavonols may be essential for maintaining cognitive function and fending off age-related cognitive decline. These substances have been linked to increased neuronal function, better blood flow, and anti-inflammatory properties. One important process involves flavanols’ capacity to boost nitric oxide synthesis, a chemical that aids in blood vessel dilatation and enhances cerebral blood flow.
Can Flavanols Delay the Decline of Cognitive Function?
Numerous investigations have looked into the relationship between flavonoid intake and mental performance. For example, a study that appeared in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered that seniors who regularly ate foods high in flavonoids had a decreased risk of cognitive impairment.
Cocoa flavanols have been shown in another Harvard Medical School study to improve memory and cognitive function in older people. The senior home care team can assist in adding these components to a healthy diet by helping with meal planning, prepping, and even cooking. More foods that are rich in flavonoids are listed below:
Dark Chocolate: Flavanols can be found in dark chocolate, especially when it has a high cocoa content. However, because the calories and sugar content are high, the senior home care team should monitor intake for moderation.
Berries: Flavanols are abundant in raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. Seniors can eat them as a snack on their own or mix them with yogurt or cereal. This is another area where meal planning comes into play, as some seniors might not be used to choosing berries for everyday meals.
Tea: Not only is tea good for encouraging hydration, but it also contains a type of flavanol called catechins. Loved ones and the senior home care team can encourage seniors to choose between black or green tea for their health and hydration needs.
Nuts: Walnuts and almonds are two examples of nuts that include flavonols. Seniors can add them to meals or enjoy them as a filling snack.
The need for efficient methods to preserve cognitive health is growing as the number of people in their senior years rises. Flavanols provide seniors with a simple, natural way to maintain their cognitive well-being because of their potential to improve brain function and prevent cognitive decline. With the help of senior home care, seniors can take a proactive and fun approach to supporting brain health and cultivating a more vibrant and meaningful life by including foods high in flavonoids in their diets.
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2775887/#:~:text=Flavonoids
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/a-flavanol-rich-diet-may-increase-brain-function
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-76160-9
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care Services in Knox County TN please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (865) 539-5224
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Knoxville, Old City, Fort Sanders, Old Sevier, Edgewood, North Knoxville, Forest Heights, Sequoyah Hills, Knox County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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