Ask Dr. Taz MD: April 9th, 2014
Lately, I have doing better with my digestion, gaining a little weight, and feeling better in general. I am concerned about things I have heard about the consumption of grains contributing to problems with the brain, such as dementia and altzheimers. Dr. Perlmutter’s book, Grain Brain, in particular talks about these effects on the brain.
Grains are one of the foods that I can have. I eat gluten-free most of the time. If I eliminate grains, I lose one of my main sources for putting weight back on. However, I have been having increased problems with short-term memory, so I am concerned. What is your view about the connection between grains and problems with the brain. What would be your advice in my situation?
Answer:Â
While we are all questioning the overabundance of grain in the “Standard American Diet,” it’s helpful to keep in mind that each person is unique and individual in their circumstances. If you are losing weight and grain is a source of keeping your caloric intake high, then you should not completely eliminate grain from your diet. You can vary the types of grain and make sure you are not getting too much of one particular type of grain and try to buy organic, no GMO grain, whenever it is possible. There are many reasons for cognitive decline, so it might be helpful to revisit those issues specifically.