Research shows that adoption of a heart-healthy and antioxidant-rich eating program such as the Mediterranean diet may help reduce brain inflammation, inhibit beta-amyloid deposits, and improve cellular metabolism in ways that protect against disease. There is also evidence to suggest that healthy eating's positive impact on cardiovascular health in turn reduces dementia risk.
A Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish and shellfish, and healthy fats from nuts and olive oil. A variation of the Mediterranean diet called MIND (Mediterranean–DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) additionally limits sugar and sodium and has been shown to lower high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Two recent studies also suggest that the diet’s emphasis on fish may be a strong factor influencing higher cognitive function and slower cognitive decline.
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