Dementia diets can hep people avoid the condition in later life

Dementia causes memory loss and an impairment of cognitive function which may be prevented by eating the Mediterranean diet

A healthy lifestyle and exercise is, however, still recommended to help prevent dementia Dementia may be prevented by eating a mediterranean diet. That’s according to several health websites and a host of scientific studies. Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and, of course, olive oil, eating this southern european diet could reduce the risk of memory loss and prevent the condition. “Research suggests the mediterranean diet may slow cognitive decline in older adults,” Jonathan Graff-Radford, MD, told the Mayo Clinic. “It can also reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment, a transitional stage between the cognitive decline of normal ageing and dementia, and reduce the risk of this disease progressing into Alzheimer’s disease.”

Dementia diet: Prevent memory loss by eating the mediterranean diet

The UK-based Alzheimer’s Society, considering the facts, said there was “some evidence” eating a mediterranean diet could reduce the risk of memory problems and dementia. “Investigations have shown this diet is associated with lower levels of stroke, diabetes type 2, cardiovascular disease and death from any cause,” they wrote online. “They have also shown sticking to the diet more strictly might be associated with slower rates of decline in memory and thinking.” The Mediterranean diet could have this protective effect due to the high levels of antioxidants it contains. Taken in from fruits and vegetables, these substances can help protect brain cells against damage by increasing the amount of protein available.

Dementia diet: Eating a mediterranean diet could help prevent memory loss and avoid the condition

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Dementia: Other ways to prevent dementia include getting exercise and enough sleep

A 2017 study involving nearly 6,000 adults found those who consistently followed a mediterranean diet were more likely to avoid dementia. Presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2017, London, the study even suggested a mediterranean diet could preserve mental ability. However, the Alzheimer’s Association challenged some of the evidence this diet could prevent the condition. “It is worth noting that other recent large studies have not shown similar trends,” they wrote online. “It is also important to recognise that the studies were observational so they are unable to show any direct cause and effect in the way that a trial might.”

Dementia diet: The mediterranean diet includes many fruits, nuts, olive oil and fish