Is Pocatello eating its way to dementia? Doctor Explains

Brain Health

The big picture: Dr. Puja Uppal says "...reward your brain with the right foods; and it'll reward you with a healthy mind."

In the news: Pocatello, new research continues to show that eating the right types of foods can reduce your risk of dementia.

The key point here is this: Mom was right! A healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and Omega-3s, can help with cognitive function.

Of note, heavily processed foods, and "junk foods" have been shown to negatively harm your brain health. Eating junk food for even 2-3 days per week has been shown to reduce your brain function and increase your risk of poor outcomes.

Did you know that 30.3% of the residents of Bannock County have high blood pressure and 36.3% of you in Bannock County are obese? Both of these variables can harm your brain health.

Looking to improve your health?

Doctor's Insight about Brain Health & Diets

The big picture: "Many people have a hard time believing that what we eat shapes our mind and influences everything from our mood to our memory. While there is no cure for dementia, the science is starting to show us that diet influences the types of health risks we face in the future." Dr. Adriana Davis, Family Medicine.

Next Steps: If you're concerned about the risks of strokes, brain health, and dementia, talk to your healthcare provider about getting a 'Cognitive Assessment'. (Learn More Here)

Further Steps: The Medical Annual Wellness visit is a perfect time for you to get your cognitive assessment. The Graphical Mini-Cog is a good 3-minute test to check for cognitive impairment.

As residents of Pocatello, you should know that being up to date on your preventative tests and services is important for your overall health.

In Bannock County:

Only 36.7% of men over the age of 65 are up to date on their preventative tests and services.

Only 38.1% of women over the age of 65 are up to date on their preventative tests and services.