Healthy Brain: Adopting Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle Offers Potential Protection
Pounding the Pavement and Plate: The MedWalk Intervention Study on Dementia Prevention
Scientists are digging deep into whether combining a Mediterranean diet and regular exercise through walking could lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, like Alzheimer's. This study, dubbed the "MedWalk Intervention," accounts for both a popular dietary plan and a widespread physical activity, shaking up the phrase "health is wealth."
While research linking each separately to brain health has surfaced, the current study aims to prove their combined impact. The research team, comprising Aussies, Kiwis, and the Brits, initialized their investigation but paused due to you-know-who. Don't worry, though; they've kept us informed, sharing their progress in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.
Initially planned to last two years, the altered course of the global pandemic called for a slight adjustment in the follow-up period to a single year. Thus, the study continues, bolstering its sample size by recruiting seniors from South Australia and Victoria, both independently living or from the wider community.
The primary focus of the study is on visual memory and learning changes over a 12-month period. Besides this, the researchers are also interested in the intervention's effect on factors such as mood, quality of life, health costs, and cardiovascular health. They've even set their sights on biomarkers associated with cognitive decline.
The MedWalk Intervention: A Two-Pronged Approach
The study participants have been divided into two groups: the intervention group and a control group. Participants in the intervention group are embarking on a journey that combines dietary modification and a guided walking regimen, all with psychosocial behavioral change support to keep them on track.
To steer them in the right direction, the researchers are breaking down the differences between a Mediterranean diet and the typical Australian diet, providing olive oil and other necessities for free. After assessing their initial fitness levels, the participants are taking part in group walking sessions for the first six months and monthly sessions for the following six months.
The Mediterranean Diet and Mental Mojo
Certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann, who's not part of the ongoing study, shares her insights on the Mediterranean diet and its link to a reduced risk of dementia. Studies have demonstrated a correlation, but she reminds us of the numerous factors impacting dementia risk, like genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
The Mediterranean diet might contribute to brain health by:
- Rich antioxidants: Combating oxidative stress and inflammation that could potentially speed up cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Essential for brain health, with omega-3s, in general, being linked to enhanced cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Moreover, the diet is high in fiber that promotes gut microbiome balance, low in processed grains and sugars, and encourages the consumption of ultra-processed foods, which might contribute to dementia. Social aspects, such as sharing meals with loved ones and regular exercise, also play a significant role in brain health.
Lordy, Lordy, Lest We Forget Walking
Walking regularly has been found to delay cognitive decline. A recent study uncovered a dose-dependent relationship - taking 10,000 steps daily lowered the dementia risk by half! Other research shows a link between walking speed and dementia, and a published study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine affirms that aerobic exercise like walking can help fight cognitive impairment.
Brain health coach Ryan Glatt from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute offers more insight. He explains that walking may improve brain health by increasing blood flow, boosting brain activity, reducing stress, and promoting mental well-being. It also includes social and natural elements that could contribute to cognitive benefits.
The data collection for the MedWalk Intervention study concludes by the end of 2023, so stay tuned for the results! Remember, noshing on Mediterranean cuisine, pounding the pavement, and nurturing social connections can all contribute to a healthier brain. Keep walking and eating wisely! 🏃♂️🍴🧠
- Scientists endeavor to establish if a combination of the Mediterranean diet and regular exercise through walking can lessen the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, like Alzheimer's, in a study called the "MedWalk Intervention."
- The research team, which includes Australians, Kiwis, and the Brits, investigates the impact of this dietary plan and physical activity on various factors, such as brain health, mood, quality of life, health costs, and cardiovascular health.
- While the study originally intended to last two years, the altered course of the global pandemic has necessitated a single-year follow-up period instead.
- The study participants are divided into two groups: an intervention group, which adopts a Mediterranean diet and a guided walking regimen, and a control group.
- The Mediterranean diet, rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, is believed to enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
- Walking regularly has been linked to delayed cognitive decline, and it may improve brain health by increasing blood flow, boosting brain activity, reducing stress, and promoting mental well-being.
