While there’s no miracle cure, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet could help protect against Alzheimer’s disease. One particular food, in fact, may play a key role in preserving cognitive health. Here’s why.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is one of several neurodegenerative diseases, marked by a gradual loss of memory and cognitive abilities. Those affected often experience confusion, disorientation in time and space, and other brain-related difficulties depending on the stage of the illness.

The main culprits? The buildup of two proteins in the brain: amyloid and tau. Over time, their accumulation triggers inflammation that worsens the brain’s pathological changes.

Although there’s currently no known cure, certain “superfoods” have shown promise in slowing the disease’s progression.

Eggs: A Powerful Ally for Brain Health

Eggs are a dietary staple loved by many—and for good reason. According to France’s National Egg Promotion Committee (CNPO), 91% of the population considers eggs an essential part of their diet.

Packed with nutrients, they’re rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements—making them excellent sources of iron, iodine, phosphorus, and vitamin D.

A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition analyzed data from 1,024 participants in the Rush Memory and Aging Project, with an average age of 81, over a follow-up period of nearly 7 years.

Researchers found that people who consumed more than one egg per week had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who ate fewer.

This benefit appears to be linked to choline, a nutrient found in eggs that plays a vital role in supporting brain function and memory.

The Surprising Food That Fights Cognitive Decline

There’s another everyday ingredient that may also help combat cognitive degeneration—and it might surprise you: olive oil.

A 2022 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that olive oil provides significant support for healthy brain function.

Rich in essential nutrients, it helps protect brain cells and supports memory performance. Another analysis cited by Grazia suggested that olive oil could play a preventive role against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

The reason lies in its antioxidants, which help fight the buildup of toxic proteins in the brain while protecting its overall structure and function.

In short, while no food can guarantee protection from Alzheimer’s, incorporating brain-friendly ingredients like eggs and olive oil into a balanced diet may help keep your mind sharper, longer.