Can Protein Prevent Dementia?

UNITED KINGDOM -  Recent studies conducted at the University of Warwick and published in the journal Nature Communications found that consuming daily protein could prevent dementia.

The study analyzed the health benefits associated with consuming protein, focusing on memory loss associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers found that protein (MK2/3) helps regulate the shape of spines of theneurons that control communication directly to the brain. They noted that the neurons are narrower when protein is missing, which makes communication to the brain more difficult.

According to lead researcher and author, Dr. Sonia Correa:

"For example, washing the dishes; if you have washed them by hand your whole life and then buy a dishwasher it can be difficult for those people who are older or have dementia to acquire the new memories necessary to learn how to use the machine and mentally replace the old method of washing dishes with the new. The change in shape of the postsynaptic neuron due to absence of MK2/3 is strongly correlated with this inability to acquire the new memories."

According to the USDA, the following foods are rich in protein:

·         Lean cuts of meat

·         Eggs

·         Beans and Peas

·         Nuts and Seeds

·         Seafood

If you are interested in preventing memory loss, you might want to consider adding protein to your daily diet.

Have a great day.