Diet plays an important role in improving brain health and cognitive function. Especially in the elderly, the risk of cognitive decline increases with age. It is very important to understand the connection between brain health and food. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a combination of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet may help slow cognitive decline. Read also | Your brain’s new best friend is hiding in the kitchen: it’s the MIND diet; know what it is
Research results:
It has long been known how unhealthy food can negatively affect health. A recent study, on the other hand, looked at the impact of a healthy diet on a person’s health and how it can improve overall well-being. Eating patterns high in lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and low in ultra-processed foods may have neuroprotective benefits and slow cognitive decline in older adults, the study suggests. The Mediterranean diet is inspired by the eating habits of several countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. The diet consists of a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, fish and moderate consumption of wine with limited inclusion of red meat and processed foods.
On the other hand, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is designed to regulate the body’s blood pressure levels and emphasizes the inclusion of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products while reducing sodium. , saturated fat and added sugar. Read also | The Brain Diet Revolution: Here’s How Your Food Choices Can Affect Mental Health and Cognitive Function
What is the MIND Diet?
The MIND diet is a combination of DASH and the Mediterranean diet, which has shown promising results in supporting brain health and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The MIND diet focuses mainly on foods such as leafy greens, berries, nuts and olive oil. Read also | World Brain Day 2023: Foods to avoid to improve memory and brain health
The study authors explained: “There is accumulating evidence that certain neuroprotective diets are associated with better preserved cognitive function in older adults. This study provides further evidence for these findings by showing that the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets are associated with better cognitive performance at baseline, and demonstrates that the Mediterranean and DASH diets were also associated with reduced rates of cognitive decline over 6 next years.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
