COCONUT OIL, FRUITS PRESERVE MEMORY, PROTECT BRAIN AGAINST DEMENTIA —Expert
COCONUT OIL, FRUITS PRESERVE MEMORY, PROTECT BRAIN AGAINST DEMENTIA
—Expert
A medical expert, Dr Temitope Farombi, has asked elderly Nigerians to increase their intake of coconut oil and fruits to preserve their memory and protect their brains against dementia associated with old age.
Dr Farombi, a consultant neurologist, gave the advice during a sensitisation programme on Dementia at the Chief Tony Anenih Geriatric Centre (CTAGC) at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
She said that coconut oil is good for brain functioning, adding that its increased consumption alongside fruits and regular exercises will ensure adequate blood supply to the brain and other parts of the body.
Dr Farombi added “Scientists have discovered that olive oil reduces the risk of dementia by prompting the brain to clear out harmful debris. So, regularly eating olive oil can protect the memory and the ability to learn new things with age.”
The expert also advised against excess intake of fried foods and high fat diets to prevent high blood cholesterol levels and fats plugging blood vessels that supply blood to vital organs of the body like the brain and heart.
CTAGC’s Director, Dr Olufemi Olowokere described dementia as a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills that is severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.
While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, he stated that dementia is sometimes caused by some underlying diseases and brain disorders.
He said that although the likelihood of having dementia increases with age, it is not a normal part of ageing.
Dr Olowokere, however, assured that the centre is equipped with requisite facilities for the upkeep of elderly people, including those that may develop dementia.
He also solicited increased investment into the care of the elderly in Nigeria, who he said had invested their energy in the nation’s development in the past.
Earlier, UCH’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Temitope Alonge, prescribed dancing as a form of exercise for elderly people to ensure they keep healthy.
According to him, “research in developed countries has shown that one of the therapies in managing patients with dementia is dancing. It allows them the privilege of exercising themselves.
“To a very good extent, it allows a lot of blood circulation to take place. It improves blood flow to the brain and so the severity of dementia is declined. This should be put to use in our country.”
@ Nigerian Tribune