The jury is still out on whether the Mediterranean diet can decrease your risk of dementia, as studies are ongoing. However, the diet has been shown to have other health benefits, such as reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. The Mediterranean diet is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats, and low in red meat, processed meats, and sugars. It also includes moderate amounts of fish, poultry, and red wine.
Related:
https://www.alz.org/global/documents/reviews/second-edition-mediterranean-diet-alzheimers-disease.pdf
http://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2013/05/08/jneurosci.3296-12.abstract
There is currently no clear consensus on whether the Mediterranean diet can decrease an individual’s risk of developing dementia. Some research suggests that there may be a protective effect, while other studies have found no association.
The Mediterranean diet is typically high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil, and moderate in fish, poultry, and red wine. Some research suggests that this type of diet can decrease inflammation and improve brain function.
One study looked at over 1,400 older adults and found that those who adhered to a Mediterranean diet had a 32% lower risk of developing dementia over a four-year period, compared to those who did not follow the diet.
However, it is important to note that this study did not prove that the Mediterranean diet actually caused the decrease in dementia risk. It is possible that other factors, such as lifestyle or genetic factors, could explain the findings.
More research is needed to determine whether the Mediterranean diet can truly help to prevent dementia. In the meantime, following a Mediterranean diet is generally considered to be a healthy choice, and may provide other health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease.
