Mediterranean Dieters Less Likely to Develop Dementia

By Rachel Stockton (rachels@foodconsumer.org)

Ask any health care professional what the perfect drug would be to slow cognitive decline and Alzheimer's, and he would likely say it would be some sort of pill that releases all the benefits of a Mediterranean diet and exercise, working in tandem.

The good news is that it's almost as easy to significantly reduce cognitive risk by following a Mediterranean diet, which allows for a plethora of colorful fruits and vegetables.  A new study released by the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's maintains that patients who follow a Mediterranean closely will reduce dementia risk by 40%.  Additionally, those who add exercise into the equation lessen their risk by another 33%.

The authors of the study are careful to interject that there was no causal relationship linked to diet, exercise, and dementia.  However, they are quick to point out that the study reinforces the benefits of choosing a healthy lifestyle.

Earlier this year, the Journal of Neurology reported that those who follow the Mediterranean diet are less likely to fall prey to memory loss associated with dementia and Alzheimer's.  Furthermore, the test revealed that those who have memory loss already, but who are on diet lessen their chances of transitioning into full blown Alzheimer's.

Authors of that particular study say that the Mediterranean diet evens out blood sugar and reduces inflammation - both of which directly reduce the chances of cognitive impairment.