Too much overeating harms mental health. Researchers from Arizona in the United States have found that a person over the age of 70 who eats too much doubles the risk of seeing their memory decline. In the crosshairs of scientists, “big eaters”, include those who consume more than 2,100 calories per day. These greedy would be more exposed to the risk of mild cognitive impairment, this intermediate stage between normal age-related memory loss and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Conversely, people who maintain a low-calorie diet in old age would do well by preventing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. >> More info on Alzheimer’s disease.
More than 2,100 calories per day, risk threshold
The eating habits and alcohol consumption of 1,200 seniors aged 70 to 89 have been analyzed by scientists. This panel of volunteers who did not suffer from Alzheimer’s disease was then subjected to memory. All of the participants in this study were separated into three categories: heavy eaters, who consumed 2,100 to 6,000 calories per day, “average” appetites, with 1,500 to 2,100 calories daily and finally the third group , that of small appetites with 600 to 1,500 calories per day.
A total of 163 patients presented with memory problems during the experiment. The researchers found that the risk was twice as high in people who ate the most calories.
A diet low in calories
“The more calories you consume daily, the more you run the risk of having cognitive disorders”, concludes Dr. Yonas Geda, the main author of the study, interviewed by the DailyMail. The solution ? “Cutting calories and eating healthy foods is still the easiest way to prevent age-related memory loss.”
Unsurprisingly, a balanced diet and regular exercise is the ideal combination for delaying the onset of chronic diseases and dementia.
To age in good health, older people are advised to follow these dietary recommendations: eat four meals a day (breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner), consume protein at each meal, with an emphasis on fish , dairy products and eggs, more than meat.
Also important are calcium-rich foods to prevent osteoporosis, as well as fibers and vitamins, found in cereals, fruits and vegetables. Finally, do not forget to drink at least 1 liter or even 1.5 liters of water per day, to avoid dehydration, the feeling of thirst tending to decrease with age.
Of course, we avoid excess sugars and alcohol, foods that are too rich in fat, which are dangerous for the cholesterol. >> To read also: Food and anti-cholesterol recipes
