Healthy Brain: Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle May Offer Defense
Exploring the Combined Impact of Mediterranean Diet and Walking on Cognitive Health
Researchers are investigating the potential benefits of a combined lifestyle intervention, known as the "MedWalk intervention," aimed at reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's. The study, which is being conducted by a team from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, focuses on individuals aged 60-90 in the Australian states of South Australia and Victoria.
The MedWalk intervention is a combination of a Mediterranean diet and a supervised walking regimen, integrating psychosocial behavioral change techniques for long-term adherence. Participants receive intensive support for the first six months, with continued assistance for the next six months to help maintain the intervention.
Conducted originally to assess cognitive function over a two-year period, the study has been modified due to the COVID-19 pandemic to follow participants for only one year. Despite this shortened timeframe, the study authors remain optimistic about the study's findings. The primary outcome of interest is a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants.
Furthermore, the research team is monitoring the intervention's impact on mood, quality of life, and health costs, as well as cardiovascular health and arterial stiffness. Special attention is being paid to biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress.
Previous research has suggested that following a Mediterranean diet and engaging in regular physical activity, particularly walking, may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia. A Mediterranean diet may contribute to brain health by providing antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and reducing the risk of insulin resistance. In contrast, walking is believed to improve cognitive function by increasing brain blood flow, promoting brain activity, and reducing stress.
"While these studies suggest a link between the Mediterranean diet and a reduced risk of dementia, many factors can influence dementia risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health," stated certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann, specializing in the Mediterranean diet. Therefore, Middelmann stressed that maintaining a healthy diet is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to brain health and dementia prevention.
The ongoing study is expected to provide valuable insights into the combined effects of the Mediterranean diet and walking on cognitive health and dementia risk. Results from the analysis thus far have been published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. The data collection period will be completed by the end of 2023.
- The MedWalk intervention, a combination of a Mediterranean diet and a supervised walking regimen, is aimed at reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's, in individuals aged 60-90.
- The study authors are monitoring the intervention's impact on mood, quality of life, and health costs, as well as cardiovascular health and arterial stiffness, in addition to the primary outcome of interest, a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants.
- Previous research has suggested that a Mediterranean diet and engaging in regular physical activity, particularly walking, may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia.
- Certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann, specializing in the Mediterranean diet, stated that while these studies suggest a link, maintaining a healthy diet is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to brain health and dementia prevention.
- Special attention is being paid to biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress, during the study.
- Results from the analysis thus far have been published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, and the data collection period will be completed by the end of 2023.
