Mediterranean Diet Linked too Reduced Dementia Risk, Even in High-Risk Individuals
new research published in Nature Medicine suggests the Mediterranean diet can significantly lower dementia risk, even for individuals genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease. A study revealed that people carrying two copies of the APOE4 gene – a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s – experienced a 35 percent reduction in dementia risk by adhering to the diet.
The Mediterranean diet isn’t simply a dietary plan; it’s a cultural lifestyle recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.It emphasizes communal meals, mindful eating, and locally-sourced ingredients. Neurologist Richard Isaacson emphasizes, “The genes do not have to determine your fate.”
British studies in 2023 corroborated thes findings, showing up to a 23 percent reduction in dementia risk among those closely following the diet. Researchers have identified a unique metabolic response in APOE4 carriers to the healthy nutrients abundant in Mediterranean foods. Brain scans have even demonstrated the potential for the hippocampus – the brain’s memory center – to increase in volume following lifestyle changes.
Key components of the diet include:
Base: Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil.
complement: Fish and seafood several times a week, moderate amounts of dairy and chicken.
Rarely: red meat and processed foods.
Drink: Water as the primary beverage, with wine consumed in moderation.
* Lifestyle: Shared meals, slow cooking, and social engagement.
A related dietary approach, the MIND diet, further prioritizes brain health with an emphasis on dark green leafy vegetables and berries.
However, the future of this research is uncertain. Long-running US health studies crucial to understanding these connections are currently threatened by funding cuts.
Sources: Nature Medicine, CNN
