The nerve cell damage caused by frontotemporal dementia leads to loss of function in these brain regions, which variably cause deterioration in behavior, personality and/or difficulty with producing or comprehending language.

Diet Plan

• Raw leafy greens

Darker greens, such as spinach, kale and romaine, have more brain-boosting antioxidants and vitamin K. Try to eat one cup daily.

• Cruciferous vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprouts are high in vitamin K and glucosinolates, which have an antioxidant effect. Include at least three 1/2 cup servings in your diet a week.

• Blueberries

All berries have a positive effect on brain health, but blueberries have been studied the most. They contain flavonoids, which activate brain pathways associated with less cellular aging. Try to consume 1/2 cup of any berries three times a week.

• Beans

It’s unknown exactly what makes beans, lentils and chickpeas good for brain health, but it’s likely due to a combination of antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Include 1/2 cup in your diet as a replacement for red meat at least twice a week.

• Nuts

Unsalted nuts are high in antioxidants and healthy fats. Walnuts are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acid, a brain-protective nutrient. Aim for 1/4 cup of nuts, or two tablespoons of nut butter, daily.

• Fish

The iodine and iron in all types of fish are thought to help maintain cognitive function. Fattier fish, like salmon and trout, also contain brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids. Choose them at least once a week.

• Whole grains

Choose fibre-rich whole grains like oats, brown rice and whole-grain wheat to offset your intake of refined grains.

• Poultry

Substitute chicken for red or processed meat as often as you can (but only one serving a day).

• Low-fat dairy

Opt for 1% or skim milk and yogurt, or cheese with 22% milk fat or less.

• Olive oil

Use this as your main oil for cooking and in salad dressing. ?It contains monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, as well as antioxidants.

Types of Frontotemporal Dementia

• Frontal variant

This form of frontotemporal dementia affects a person’s behavior and personality.

• Primary progressive aphasia

- Progressive nonfluent aphasia, which affects a person’s ability to speak. - Semantic dementia, which affects a person’s ability to use and understand language.

Signs and Symptoms

• Poor judgment

• Loss of empathy

• Socially inappropriate behavior

• Lack of inhibition

• Repetitive compulsive behavior

• Inability to concentrate or plan

• Frequent, abrupt mood changes

• Speech difficulties

• Problems with balance or movement

• Memory loss

Complications from Frontotemporal Dementia

• It can lead to an increased risk for other illnesses that can be more serious. Pneumonia is the most common cause of death, with FTD. People are also at increased risk for infections and fall-related injuries.

• Pneumonia is the most common cause of death in those who have frontotemporal dementia. They also are at increased risk for infections and fall-related injuries.

• As frontotemporal dementia progressively worsens, a person may engage in dangerous behaviors or be unable to care for himself or herself. A person with frontotemporal dementia may need 24-hour nursing care or to stay in an assisted living facility or nursing home.

• Some subtypes of frontotemporal dementia lead to language problems or impairment or loss of speech. Primary progressive aphasia, semantic dementia and progressive agrammatic (nonfluent) aphasia are all considered to be frontotemporal dementia.