Eating a Mediterranean diet can slow down cognitive decline and increase the brain’s performance in memory, language, and attention. It can also reduce the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study published in Frontiers in Nutrition by Australian researchers.
The study, led by Roy Hardman of the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology and executed in the University of Technology in Melbourne, used data from previous research conducted between 2000 and 2015 to study how the Mediterranean Diet could generate changes in cognitive processes over time. Reviewed data proved that attention, memory, and language improved among adults following Mediterranean diets. This diet had a relevant impact in the long-term and working memory. It also boosted executive function, visual constructs, and recognition.
These benefits could be the result of the ability of the elements consumed in a Mediterranean diet to reduce risk factors. Food included in this diet increase micronutrients and improve vitamin and mineral imbalances. As a result, inflammatory responses are reduced. Eating like a Mediterranean also has a great impact on lipid profiles and weight loss.
“The most surprising result was that the positive effects were found in countries around the whole world. So regardless of being located outside of what is considered the Mediterranean region, the positive cognitive effects of a higher adherence to a MedDiet were similar in all evaluated papers;” said Roy Hardman.
What is the Mediterranean diet?
This diet, traditional in Mediterranean countries, is characterized by a high consumption of vegetables and a limited amount of protein and dairy. The primary source of fat is olive oil. Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor the food is also one of its biggest secrets.
The Mediterranean diet is among the most recommended by physicians
Mayo Clinic has issued several articles about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. They show that it reduces the risk of heart disease while it fights against “bad” cholesterol and negative proteins in arteries.
The Mediterranean diet is also linked to a reduced incidence of cancer, Parkinson’s diseases and other chronic conditions that are common during adulthood.
Most scientists recommend individuals in all age groups switch to the Mediterranean diet. It can have a direct impact on quality of life since it reduces the development of physical and mental issues such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, obesity and heart conditions.
Source: Eureka Alert