MIND diet course
Feb 6, 2024
An in-person MIND diet course has been launched
tickets on sale through eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/
Background to the MIND diet
Leading researchers in the field of nutrition and Alzheimer’s disease crafted the MIND diet. Numerous randomized clinical trials have confirmed that adhering to the MIND diet significantly aids in dementia prevention and decelerates cognitive decline. Individuals who rigorously adhered to the MIND diet experienced a remarkable 53% decrease in dementia diagnosis. Research even suggests improved cognitive performance after adopting this dietary approach.
What the MIND diet is
The MIND diet distinguishes itself from short-term or fad diets; rather, it represents a lifelong approach to eating. The MIND diet offers a non-pharmacological avenue for preventing dementia and serves as a treatment option for memory loss symptoms and early-stage dementia.
The MIND diet is based on the principles of the Mediterranean diet but even more brain healthy. The MIND diet has an emphasis on minimally processed foods that are packed with nutrients to support brain health. Olive oil, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables are a feature of everyday eating. Berries, nuts, seeds, vegetables, beans, fish, and poultry are all encouraged. Eating this way guarantees sufficient intake of plant phytonutrients, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in reducing inflammation and scavenging harmful free radicals. No specific foods are restricted; rather, the emphasis lies in minimizing saturated fats while incorporating healthy unsaturated fats like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fish.
Who runs the MIND diet course?
I, Nicolle Appleton, will be facilitating the course. I am an Alzheimer’s disease research nurse and Nutritionist. I have extensive experience working with individuals facing memory challenges, specializing in dementia assessment and diagnosis, Alzheimer's disease clinical trials, and cognitive stimulation therapy groups.
Who should attend this course?
You are encountering challenges with your memory.
You have received a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.
You have received a diagnosis of early Alzheimer’s disease or early dementia.
There is a history of dementia in your family.
You are motivated to minimize age-related issues to the greatest extent possible.
You are caring for someone with memory loss.
I understand that meal planning and cooking abilities often decline early in the dementia disease process. I will always take this into account in the MIND diet course. You can expect plenty of no-cook ideas and easy methods to incorporate brain-healthy foods with minimal effort. Simultaneously, if you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, I can provide a variety of recipe inspiration ideas to ignite your creativity. With a group size of 6-10 people, we ensure that weekly goals can be tailored specifically to each individual's needs and preferences. If you haven't been the primary cook in your household before, you'll find the support and encouragement you need within this group.
Included in the course is a 30-minute session with me. This allows us to delve deeper into the MIND diet, discuss your goals, or explore supplements to further support you.
The course is designed to facilitate gradual implementation of changes, avoiding a sudden and unrealistic diet overhaul overnight. This approach ensures that changes are achievable and sustainable over time.
Week by week course outline
Week 1. Berries, leafy green vegetables, and other vegetables
Week 2. Unsaturated fats (olive oil, nuts, seeds, fish, proteins)
Week 3. Whole grains, beans & legumes
Week 4. Wine and limiting saturated fats.
At 6 months there will be a 30-minutute catch up arranged to see how everyone has got on with the diet and if there are any questions.
The MIND diet score will be calculated at both week 1 and week 4, providing a measure of progress. Each week, there will be a presentation on the designated topic, allowing ample opportunity for questions. Group brainstorming and idea sharing for meals and foods will be encouraged. Weekly sessions will also include troubleshooting to address any areas of difficulty. Successes will be celebrated, and the group accountability will foster motivation and help achieve individual goals.
Cost
The early bird price for the course is £175, with the regular price set at £195
Location of the Course
The MIND diet course is held in-person in Bath. The Address is:
Green Park Natural Health Clinic
18b Charles St
Bath
BA1 1HX
The course will be held either on a Saturday morning or a Thursday evening, with each session consistently scheduled on the same day throughout the duration of the course.
MIND course at RICE
If you have attended the RICE centre, you may be able to enter this course free of charge. I will be delivering this course at RICE later this year.