The
familiar saying “you are what you eat” holds true to living a healthy
lifestyle. The nutrients our bodies absorb from foods play a huge role on our
overall health and well-being. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to a multitude of
unfavorable symptoms and illnesses including cognitive decline.
A
recent study analyzed the relationship between healthy eating and reduced risk
of cognitive decline. The study included 27,860 participants in a double-blind
randomized control trial. Data on fasting lipids, glucose, smoking, alcohol
intake, medications, physical activity, blood pressure and BMI was collected at
baseline and at 56 months follow up. Each participant also completed a food
frequency questionnaire. Higher scores on the questionnaire indicated a more
frequent intake of healthy foods.
It was
common for the subjects with higher scores to have a lower BMI, be less
likely to smoke, and be more active and slightly older. During the 56 months of follow
up, 4,699 cases of cognitive decline occurred. Results indicated that higher
diet quality was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Bottom
Line: Long-term studies suggest that 10-20 percent of those aged 65 and older
may experience mild cognitive impairment. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can
help slow cognitive decline and boost brain health. Strive for at least five
servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Fruits and vegetables are nutrient
dense and contain micronutrients that have shown a positive correlation to
improving brain health. While cognitive decline is generally thought of as
inevitable with aging, small changes in diet may significantly reduce your risk
for cognitive decline.
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