A Key Review involving over 62,500 adults indicates that adhering to a specific diet may lower the risk of cognitive decline in older age by 40%.
Researchers from Shandong University in China examined 15 studies involving individuals aged over 60 and discovered that those who followed a Mediterranean or mind-focused diet were notably less likely to experience memory and cognitive issues compared to those without a healthy diet.
The Mediterranean diet and the Mind diet share many similarities, both emphasizing vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and moderate amounts of fish, chicken, and dairy products. Conversely, they limit processed foods, lean meats, and sugar.
However, while the Mediterranean diet draws inspiration from specific regions, the Mind diet is designed explicitly to safeguard the brain against age-related decline.
The Mediterranean diet highlights certain culturally significant ingredients, such as olive oil, while the Mind diet focuses on nutrient-rich foods like berries and leafy greens.
Researchers have long speculated about the impact of diet on brain aging, although evidence has been mixed. To clarify this issue, the Shandong University team aggregated data from 15 studies to gain a better understanding of the correlation between diet and aging in the brain, as well as extended risks of related diseases like dementia.
The studies included presented varied results. However, their combined findings indicated that elderly individuals who maintained healthy eating habits were significantly less likely (by 40%) to experience cognitive decline compared to those following unhealthy diets.
Consequently, researchers concluded that older adults should be encouraged to incorporate vegetables, fruits, fish, and legumes into their meals.
Experts not involved in the study cautioned in BBC Science Focus that the interplay between diet and cognitive health is complex and the findings should be interpreted cautiously.
Professor Keith Frain, Professor Emeritus of Human Metabolism at Oxford University, remarked, “This study convincingly demonstrates that healthier diets correlate with enhanced cognitive function in older adults.”
However, Frain cautioned that the study does not imply that a better diet causes improved brain health. He explained that the studies involved in this analysis were observational, which means other factors like wealth, privilege, or non-dietary healthy habits could contribute to the observed link.
“While striving for a healthy diet as we age for various reasons is important, it is misleading to suggest that diet alone can alter our cognitive function,” Frain added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Oliver Shannon, a Lecturer in Nutrition and Aging at Newcastle University, noted in BBC Science Focus that the findings of this study, consistent with previous research and recent clinical trials, suggest that consuming healthier diets in later life could positively influence the brain. Thus, there might be a causal relationship present.
“Making small dietary adjustments towards healthier options, such as increasing the intake of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fish, can help older individuals maintain their memory and cognitive skills as they age,” he stated.
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About Our Experts
Professor Keith Frain is a professor of human metabolism at Oxford University in the UK and an honorary fellow at Green Templeton College in Oxford. His research focuses on metabolism and nutrition, and he has authored numerous books, including the textbook Human Metabolism: A Regulatory Perspective.
Dr. Oliver Shannon is a lecturer in nutrition and aging at the Center for Human Nutrition Research at Newcastle University, UK. His research primarily investigates the impacts of nutrition, including dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet, on cognitive and cardiovascular aging. Shannon has published over 80 peer-reviewed articles in leading nutrition journals.
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
