Mental Sharpness Preservation: Adopting Mediterranean Diet and an Active Lifestyle Could Offer Protection
Researchers are delving into the joint effects of a Mediterranean diet and regular walking on the risks and signs of dementia and cognitive decline.
Known separately for their potential to bolster brain health, the study aims to assess their impact when combined in a single intervention called the "MedWalk intervention."
The MedWalk study, planned to wrap up by the end of 2023, brings together researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
While previously conducted studies suggested a link between the Mediterranean diet and fewer dementia cases, it's crucial to remember that numerous factors play a role in dementia risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
A Mediterranean diet might help brain health in several ways, such as:
- Being rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, major contributors to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Containing omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), essential for brain health. Omega-3s are associated with improved cognitive function and lower risks of cognitive decline.
- Including high amounts of fiber to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, reducing insulin resistance and inflammation.
- Limiting the intake of processed grains and sugars, thus lowering the risk of dementia.
- Avoiding the consumption of ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to dementia.
Additionally, sharing meals with loved ones and regular exercise are additional aspects of the Mediterranean diet that have been linked to improved brain health.
On the other hand, walking regularly seems to slow cognitive decline as well:
- One study found a dose-dependent relationship between walking and dementia prevention, with taking 10,000 steps daily lowering the risk by half.
- Other research demonstrates that walking improves brain blood flow, supports cognitive activity, reduces stress, and enhances feelings of well-being.
The current study will help decide whether the combined MedWalk intervention provides meaningful benefits in reducing cognitive decline and dementia risks.
- The MedWalk intervention, a combination of a Mediterranean diet and regular walking, is being studied for its potential effects on the risks and symptoms of dementia and cognitive decline.
- Researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are collaborating on the MedWalk study, which aims to assess the combined impact of these two factors on brain health and mental wellness.
- Previous studies have shown a link between the Mediterranean diet and reduced dementia risk, but researchers are keen to consider other influential factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
- One key benefit of a Mediterranean diet is its abundance of antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation, potential contributors to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Another advantage is its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, known to support brain health and lower the risk of cognitive decline.
- In addition to offering potential health benefits, the Mediterranean diet encourages social activities like sharing meals with loved ones, which are also linked to improved brain health, as is regular exercise, which walking can help facilitate.
