The diet that doesn't require a revolution - and may help protect against dementia

A new study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia found that adherence to the MIND diet is associated with healthier blood vessels in the brain, greater brain volume, and better cognitive function. The researchers emphasize that even gradual adoption of the diet's principles may be beneficial.

A new study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia found a link between adherence to the MIND diet and better brain health. The study, also published on the Health Day website, examined variables such as physical activity, body mass index, ethnicity, and vascular disease. Researcher Agarwal noted that the association remained even after accounting for these variables, strengthening the possibility that diet plays an independent role in supporting brain health. The MIND diet combines principles from the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet, which is designed to combat high blood pressure. The diet encourages consumption of leafy greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, beans and legumes, and recommends reducing fried foods, butter, sweets, pastries, and processed red meats. The study findings showed that the closer the diet was to the MIND diet, the better the results observed in cognitive tests and brain health measures. Agarwal explained that those who adhered more closely to the diet had lower levels of small vessel disease in the brain and healthier brain structure. The researchers emphasize that no radical or immediate change is necessary, and that gradual adoption of some of the diet's principles may be a step in the right direction.