Sometimes, the correct combination of these elements can also help reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s. For instance, one study reported that a diet that both reduced your carb intake and increased your consumption of healthy fats decreased your risk of Alzheimer’s by as much as 42% [1].
One important point to make about this study is that the suggestion about increasing your fat intake should be tempered with the fact that the fats must be healthy fats. Choose lean fats like extra virgin olive oil, wild-caught salmon, and coconut oil in order to heighten your healthy fat levels.
Cutting Out Carbs
Carbohydrates seem to have the most striking effect on your risk-level. One study conducted by Mayo Clinic examined the relative risk levels of people eating small and large amounts of carbs. The study discovered that the people eating greater amounts of carbs had a risk-level 4 times higher than that of the individuals who ate very few carbs [2]. That’s a significant difference!
There are many other studies supporting the theory that high levels of glucose will increase your risk of Alzheimer’s [3]. Some studies have even found that cutting out carbs can actually reverse some cases of cognitive impairment [4]. These studies give us hope that Alzheimer’s symptoms are in fact reversible based on lifestyle choices.
If you are interested in reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s, consider adopting a low-carb diet. While you are getting started, it may be tricky to learn how to navigate the obstacles of our gluten-infested society. However, once you get used to it, you’ll feel better than ever.
In order to successfully cut down on your carbohydrate intake, try counting carbs for a few months. To experience the benefits associated with Alzheimer’s, aim to eat between 60 and 80 grams a day.
Have you tried cutting gluten out of your diet? What are your tips for adopting a sustainable gluten-free diet? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section!