Influence of the Mediterranean Diet on Brain Ageing: A Systematic Review
Overview of the Mediterranean Diet
Researchers from Australia have conducted the first systematic literature review aimed at summarizing how the Mediterranean diet affects normal brain ageing. This dietary pattern is rooted in the traditional foods of Mediterranean countries and is characterized by several key principles:
– Consumption of fresh fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and herbs.
– Preference for lean protein sources such as fish, poultry, eggs, and yogurt over red meat.
– Avoidance of highly processed foods and those with added sugars.
– Moderate consumption of red wine.
Compared to the conventional North American diet, the Mediterranean diet is widely regarded as healthier. Research has consistently linked it to weight loss and a reduced risk of various health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, depression, and type 2 diabetes.
The Global Challenge of Dementia
Dementia represents a significant global health concern, with an estimated new case diagnosed every three seconds. Currently, there are no medical treatments available to prevent, delay, or alter the progression of dementia. Consequently, there is growing interest in understanding how lifestyle choices and dietary habits can impact normal brain ageing.
Research Findings on Brain Ageing and the Mediterranean Diet
The recent literature review, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, explored the effects of adhering to the Mediterranean diet on brain function and cognition. The research team conducted extensive searches across nine medical databases, including Medline and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, covering studies from their inception to July 2017. They identified randomized controlled trials focused on the Mediterranean diet’s influence on brain health. Additionally, the lead author reviewed eligible trials and related articles while consulting with experts to uncover further studies.
The analysis included 66 cognitive tests and one brain function outcome from studies involving 1,888 participants. Key aspects of brain function and cognition investigated were dementia incidence, attention, processing speed, language, executive function, and various memory types (verbal, visual, and working).
While the review identified inconsistencies in how different studies defined the Mediterranean diet and structured their interventions, it indicated that the Mediterranean diet may help mitigate cognitive decline and enhance cognitive function. However, no significant benefits of this diet on the onset of cognitive impairment or dementia were observed.
Authorship and Reference
This article was written by Debra A. Kellen, PhD.
Reference: Radd-Vagenas, S., Duffy, S. L., Naismith, S. L., Brew, B. J., Flood, V. M., & Fiatarone Singh, M. A. (2018). Effect of the Mediterranean diet on cognition and brain morphology and function: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 107(3), 389-404.