Introduction
Eating certain foods regularly may help reduce the risk of developing dementia, according to a new study published in the journal Neurology. The study found that people who ate a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish had a lower risk of developing dementia than those who ate a diet high in processed and fried foods. This is great news for those looking to reduce their risk of developing dementia, as it suggests that making simple dietary changes can have a positive impact on cognitive health. In this article, we’ll look at the foods that the study found to be beneficial for preventing dementia, as well as some tips on how to incorporate them into your diet.
Eating These Foods Regularly May Help Prevent Dementia, New Study Finds
A new study published in the journal Neurology has found that eating certain foods on a regular basis may help reduce the risk of developing dementia. The study, which was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter Medical School in the UK, looked at the dietary habits of over 9,000 people aged between 60 and 79.
The researchers found that those who ate a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish were less likely to develop dementia than those who ate a diet high in processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks. The study also found that those who ate a Mediterranean-style diet, which is high in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, were even less likely to develop dementia.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Daisy Fancourt, said that the findings suggest that eating a healthy diet may help reduce the risk of dementia. She added that the findings are particularly important for older adults, as dementia is more common in this age group.
“Our findings suggest that eating a healthy diet may help reduce the risk of dementia,” said Dr. Fancourt. “This is particularly important for older adults, as dementia is more common in this age group. We would encourage people to eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, and to limit their intake of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.”
The findings of this study add to the growing body of evidence that suggests that eating a healthy diet may help reduce the risk of developing dementia. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, it is clear that eating a healthy diet is important for overall health and wellbeing.
When it comes to ensuring that you’re eating a proper diet, you might find yourself focusing on things like the number of calories you’re consuming in order to keep your weight in check or what health-boosting nutrients can be found in the food that you choose to eat.
At the same time, you might not be as focused on whether or not your meals offer you antioxidants. That is, however, something you may want to start doing considering the fact that eating foods that are rich in antioxidants may help to prevent dementia, according to a new study.
Published recently by the Neurology journal, the study saw 7,283 participants who were 45 years old or older undergo interviews and tests to determine the level of antioxidants in their blood. After an average of 16 years, the researchers found that those who had higher levels of antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin in their blood were better able to avoid dementia.
“I am not surprised by the findings, as people who eat more antioxidants are healthier overall,” Lisa Young, PhD, RDN, author of Finally Full, Finally Slim, nutritionist in private practice, and adjunct professor at NYU, tells Eat This, Not That!. In this case, Young explains that “antioxidants help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which may cause damage to the cells and ultimately cognitive decline.”
To make sure that you’re benefitting from antioxidants, Young suggests eating foods like fruits and vegetables, including “green, leafy” options such as kale and spinach, which contain both lutein and zeaxanthin.
Young adds that you should “vary your color” for the best results, Young points out that the study’s findings are “another reason to eat more colorful produce!”
To find out more about adding antioxidants into your diet, be sure to read 15 Most Antioxidant-Packed Fruits & Veggies—Ranked!.
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