Recognize the need for health during World Alzheimer Month
On September 21st recognize World Alzheimer’s Day
In today’s world, there is constant chatter on the importance of staying healthy; how to stay in shape, what diets to follow, and what workout gurus to subscribe to. Thankfully, we are slowly starting to have more conversations about mental health and how to take care of our most important organ, the brain.
Every September, Alzheimer Disease International (ADI) hosts the international campaign, World Alzheimer Month.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and is prominent in individuals 65 and older. However, thousands of Canadians under 65 are diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s (or young onset dementia) every year (Alzheimer Society Canada, 2020).
We hope to support the Alzheimer Society by helping to get the word out, and by shedding some light on how you can take care of your mind with BC Blueberries.
One of the easiest ways to start strengthening your mind is by incorporating a healthy diet into your routine. Studies show that eating plenty of colourful fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s and heart disease, while also nourishing your mind and body.
BC Blueberries, aka “nature’s superfood,” are packed full of polyphenolic compounds like anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Not only do anthocyanins give blueberries their distinct colour, they also combat against “free-radicals,” or harmful-by products in the body that can lead to age-related degenerative diseases and cancer.
Alzheimer Society Canada recommends eating “blue and purple fruits and vegetables” as they “tend to be packed with anti-oxidants.” This includes blackberries, purple cabbage, plums, and blueberries.
Blueberries have also been linked to lowering blood pressure, improving the body’s insulin response, protecting the heart during a heart attack, and repairing it after damage. The American Alzheimer’s Association warns that diabetes and conditions that increase the risk of heart disease (like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol), can also increase an individual’s risk of developing Alzheimer's. So, by eating blueberries to take care of your heart and body, you’ll also be taking care of your brain.
To stay connected throughout World Alzheimer Month, follow @bcblueberries and @alzdisint on social media and use the hashtags #WorldAlzMonth and #LetsTalkAboutDementia.
Join the conversation on September 21st for World Alzheimer Day. For any additional resources, visit alzheimer.ca.
About the BC Blueberry Council
With more than 80 years of blueberry-growing experience, the BC Blueberry Council represents over 600 highbush growers. Combined these growers have more than 11,000 hectares (27,000 acres) of highbush blueberries planted in order to meet growing demand. The BC Blueberry Council has a strong commitment to on-farm food safety and works diligently with blueberry growers and collaborates with packers and processors to ensure that BC blueberries meet the highest standards for food safety and quality. For more information: bcblueberry.com.