Eating Healthy to Protect the Brain During Aging
New research reveals that adopting a healthy diet like the MIND pattern can significantly lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's in older adults, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in cognitive health.
Maintaining a nutritious diet is crucial for safeguarding brain health as we age. Recent research highlights that adopting healthy eating habits in middle age can significantly reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. A study presented at the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) conference analyzed data from nearly 93,000 adults aged 45 to 75, observing their dietary patterns over several years. The findings suggest that those who improved their diets towards the MIND eating pattern—a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—experienced a 25% lower risk of developing dementia.
The MIND diet emphasizes the consumption of whole grains, vegetables, nuts, beans, berries, poultry, and fish, while limiting intake of sweets, pastries, red meat, cheese, fried foods, and fats like butter or margarine. Participants who maintained adherence to this diet from the outset had a 9% reduced risk, with even more significant protective effects observed among Black, Hispanic, and white populations. Interestingly, individuals who enhanced their dietary habits over a decade, aligning more closely with the MIND pattern, saw a 25% reduction in dementia risk, regardless of their initial adherence levels.
These findings underscore the potential of dietary changes as a preventive measure against neurodegenerative diseases, emphasizing that it's never too late to start making healthier food choices. Incorporating a nutritious diet characterized by the principles of MIND could be a vital strategy in maintaining cognitive health into old age.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-healthier-aging-brain.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Diet rich in plant-based proteins may reduce hypertension risk, new study shows
A new study reveals that consuming minimally processed plant-based proteins like beans and lentils can help lower the risk of high blood pressure. Focus on whole foods for heart health.
Guidance on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Patients Using GLP-1 Receptor Agonists to Manage Side Effects
Expert guidelines recommend combining nutrition and physical activity strategies to manage side effects and preserve muscle in patients on GLP-1 weight-loss medications, ensuring safe and effective treatment outcomes.
Community-Led Food Co-ops Show Promise in Combating Food Insecurity and Promoting Healthy Eating
Community-run food cooperatives offer an effective way to reduce food insecurity, lower costs, and promote healthy eating, with recent research highlighting their growing impact across Australia.
U.S. Health Authorities Launch 'Operation Stork Speed' to Enhance Infant Formula Quality
The FDA and HHS have launched Operation Stork Speed to review and improve the safety and nutritional quality of infant formula, incorporating new research and increasing contaminant testing.