Foods That Adversely Affect Dementia

There are specific food requirements when caring for loved ones afflicted with dementia. The wrong types of food can sometimes injure or create discomfort for those afflicted with dementia.

• There are specific food requirements for dementia patients.

What Is Dementia?

• According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, dementia symptoms interrupt normal daily functioning and produce a lapse in judgment, impaired cognition and changes in behavior.

Mealtime

• Foods with a variety of textures, such as soup, are difficult for the dementia patient.

  Mealtimes should be on a regular schedule. Serving food at the same time every day is comforting for the dementia patient.

Chewing and Swallowing

• Provide small cut or pureed portions. Avoid food with mixed textures, such as soups with meat and vegetables, and foods with hard textures such as corn, peas, peanuts and beans.

Gastrointestinal Problems

• Avoid an abundance of coffee, sodas, chocolate, beans, broccoli or apples to prevent diarrhea. Also avoid bananas, cheese, pizza and lactose-based foods such as ice cream as they may cause constipation.

Temperature

• Do not provide foods that are too hot. A person with dementia may not realize the temperature of the food and can burn the mouth or tongue. Cold foods, such as ice cream, are easily swallowed.