For Families of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease

Good nutrition can help maintain strength, reduce confusion, and improve mood. For Alzheimer’s patients, eating enough protein and nutrients supports their body and brain, even as the disease progresses. If weight loss, swallowing problems, or refusal to eat persist, consult a dietitian or doctor for personalized advice.

Key Nutritional Needs for Alzheimer’s Patients

1.  Protein:

•  Why: Builds and repairs muscles, supports brain health, and keeps the body strong.

•  How Much: Aim for 0.5–0.8 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily (e.g., a 150-lb person needs about 75–120 grams), split into small portions.

•  Sources: Eggs, yogurt, peanut butter, soft chicken pieces, fish, or protein smoothies. For example, a small cup of Greek yogurt (10–20g protein) is easy to eat.

Explanation to Patients:

• Why protein is important?

Protein helps your body stay strong and healthy, like building blocks for your muscles and brain.

• Why eat protein at breakfast?

Eating protein at breakfast helps you feel full and gives you energy to start your day strong.

• What happens if we don't eat protein?

If you don’t eat enough protein, your body may feel weak, your muscles could get smaller, and it might be harder for your brain and body to stay healthy and work properly.

2.  Healthy Fats:

•  Why: Support brain function, as the brain relies on fats for energy and structure. Omega-3s may help reduce inflammation.

•  Sources: Avocado, nuts (if safe), olive oil, or salmon (soft-cooked). Try mashed avocado on toast or a few sips of a smoothie with flaxseed oil.

3.  Carbohydrates:

•  Why: Provide energy to stay active and alert. Complex carbs are better for stable blood sugar, which supports mood and cognition.

•  Sources: Oatmeal, whole-grain crackers, sweet potatoes, or soft fruits like bananas. Small portions, like half a banana, work well.

4.  Vitamins and Minerals:

　  Key Nutrients:

•  B Vitamins (especially B12, folate):

Support brain health and energy.

•  Vitamin D:

Helps mood and bone health.

•  Antioxidants (Vitamins C, E):

May protect brain cells.

•  Sources:

Fortified cereals, berries, spinach (pureed if needed), or eggs. A small smoothie with spinach and berries can cover multiple needs.

5.  Hydration:

•  Why: Prevents dehydration, which can worsen confusion and fatigue.

•  How Much: Aim for 6–8 small cups of fluid daily (water, juice, or broth), sipped slowly.

•  Tips: Offer flavored water or popsicles to make drinking easier.

Special Considerations for Alzheimer’s

•  Small, Frequent Meals:

As noted earlier, Alzheimer’s patients may not finish a full meal. Break meals into 5–6 mini-meals or snacks (e.g., a few bites of chicken, then a handful of grapes later).

•  Soft Textures:

If chewing or swallowing is hard, use pureed foods, thickened liquids, or soft options like scrambled eggs or mashed potatoes. Consult a speech therapist if swallowing issues are severe.

•  Appetite Stimulation:

Loss of appetite is common. Use colorful, aromatic foods (e.g., warm soup) and eat together to encourage eating.

•  Weight Maintenance:

Alzheimer’s patients may lose weight due to forgetting to eat or reduced appetite. High-calorie, nutrient-dense foods like nut butters or smoothies help.

•  Avoid Harmful Foods:

Limit sugary snacks or processed foods, as they can spike blood sugar and worsen mood swings or confusion.

Practical Tips for Caregivers

•  Protein Focus:

Since protein is critical, include it in every mini-meal or snack (e.g., a small cheese stick or hummus with soft veggies).

•  Simplify Choices:

Offer one or two foods at a time to avoid overwhelming them (e.g., “Would you like yogurt or a banana?”).

•  Monitor Intake:

Keep a simple log to ensure they’re getting enough protein, fluids, and calories daily.

•  Supplements:

If eating enough is hard, ask a doctor about protein shakes (e.g., Ensure) or vitamin supplements for B12 or D.

Example Mini-Meal Plan (One Day)

•  Morning:

Small bowl of oatmeal with a spoonful of peanut butter (10g protein).

•  Mid-Morning:

Half a banana and a few sips of a protein smoothie (5–10g protein).

•  Lunch:

Small portion of soft scrambled eggs with mashed avocado (10–15g protein).

•  Afternoon:

Greek yogurt with berries (10g protein).

•  Evening:

Small piece of soft chicken with mashed sweet potato (15g protein).

•  Night:

A few sips of warm broth or a cheese cube (5g protein).

💬 Discover a holistic approach to nurturing health in aging loved ones. This blog dives into the power of nutrition—like the Ketogenic and Mediterranean diets—and natural healing strategies to support Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and other conditions.