Does the MIND diet help prevent dementia?

The MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) is a combination of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), designed to improve brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as reduce Alzheimer's disease.

The MIND diet emphasizes foods that are good for the brain and limits foods that can be harmful. Recommended foods include green leafy vegetables as well as other vegetables, blueberries and strawberries, nuts, olive oil, whole grain products, fish such as salmon, chicken or turkey, beans and a glass of wine per day. Foods to avoid include red meat, butter and margarine, cheese, sweets and pastries, fried food and fast food.

The MIND diet is based on the science that certain foods and nutrients have neuroprotective properties and can support brain health. The diet promotes the use of antioxidants, healthy fats and nutrients that can reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function.

The recommended foods are in line with a healthy diet, but scientific research has shown that there are no cognitive differences in people who follow the diet for three years compared to those who did not follow the diet.

Source: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2302368

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-07-15 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024