The Mediterranean diet may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, according to a recent study conducted in New York, USA.
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The Mediterranean diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and grains (Image: dep) |
The Mediterranean diet consists of a high intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with low consumption of meat and dairy products.
The study involved 2,258 individuals who had never been diagnosed with dementia. They were guided to follow the Mediterranean diet for an average duration of 4 years. During the study, 262 participants were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Nikolaos Scarmeas from Columbia University stated that the research shows those who strictly adhered to the Mediterranean diet reduced their risk of developing Alzheimer’s by 39-40%, while those who followed the diet moderately lowered their risk by 15-21%.
“This study indicates that a diverse diet has a much greater impact on health than a single nutrient-focused diet,” Scarmeas remarked.
Many previous studies have also demonstrated that the Mediterranean diet helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, various types of cancer, and lowers overall mortality risk.
TUONG VY