Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle May Offer Cognitive Health Protection
Let's dive into an intriguing study exploring the impact of the MedWalk intervention on dementia and cognitive decline.
TheMedWalk intervention, a clever combo of the Mediterranean diet and regular walking, is under examination for its potential in reducing the likelihood of cognitive decline and various types of dementia, including Alzheimer's. This investigation, led by researchers across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, is currently underway.
Previous research has indicated that both the Mediterranean diet and regular exercise, particularly walking, could have positive effects on brain health. This ongoing study is designed to shed light on the combined benefits of this solid one-two punch.
The study's original motive was to track cognitive improvements over a 2-year span. However, COVID-19 disruptions have necessitated adjustments, cutting the follow-up period to a single year. Despite the complications, the scientists remain optimistic that the modified structure will yield valuable findings.
The primary focus of this study is the 12-month change in visual memory and learning among participants. Additionally, the study's team is interested in observing the intervention's impact on various aspects, such as mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, arterial stiffness, and more.
The research participants, aged between 60 and 90, are residents of South Australia and Victoria. They were sourced from independent living retirement communities, with additional participants recruited from the broader community due to the pandemic.
Close attention is being paid to biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress.
Participants were separated into two groups: the MedWalk intervention group and a control group maintaining their usual diet and activity levels. The intervention involves dietary modifications, supervised walking, and psychosocial behavioral change techniques, with intensive support provided for the initial 6 months, followed by continuous assistance for the next 6 months.
The researchers provide guidance on the differences between the Mediterranean diet and a typical Australian diet to help participants grasp the concepts behind this way of eating. Support includes offering extra-virgin olive oil free of charge, as it plays a significant role in the Mediterranean diet, as well as other essential foods.
After assessing each participant's baseline aerobic fitness, they engage in group walking sessions for the first 6 months, followed by monthly sessions for the remainder of the study.
Mediterranean diet and cognitive health
Conner Middelmann, a certified nutritionist specializing in the Mediterranean diet, not associated with the study, shared insights with Medical News Today. Studies have suggested that following a Mediterranean diet could lead to fewer instances of dementia. Other research from 2023 found a connection between the Mediterranean diet and lower rates of Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia.
Middelmann advised caution, noting that many factors can influence dementia risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. She emphasized that maintaining a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is merely one aspect of a comprehensive approach to brain health and dementia prevention.
The Mediterranean diet might support brain health by offering a wealth of antioxidants, combating oxidative stress and inflammation, which are thought to contribute to cognitive decline and neurological diseases. It also contains essential omega-3 fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), crucial for brain health, and omega-3s, in general, have been linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Moreover, the Mediterranean diet is rich in fiber, promoting gut microbiome balance, and is low in processed grains, sugars, and ultra-processed foods, all of which can contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation, and potential dementia risks.
Finally, Middelmann mentioned that shared meals with family and friends and regular exercise are additional aspects of the Mediterranean diet that have been associated with cognitive health benefits.
The benefits of walking for cognitive health
Walking regularly has been associated with slower cognitive decline. A study discovered a dose-dependent relationship between the number of steps taken and reducing the risk of dementia.
This study found that taking 10,000 steps a day lowered the risk of dementia by 50%.
Another study found a connection between walking speed and dementia, while a 2017 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine concluded that aerobic exercise, such as walking, can strengthen cognitive impairment.
"Walking may improve brain health in one or more ways. Walking may increase brain blood flow, depending on the intensity, duration, and frequency of walking," explained brain health coach Ryan Glatt from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, not involved in this study.
In addition, Glatt stated that walking may boost levels of brain activity, reduce feelings of overall stress while enhancing well-being, and incorporate social elements and exposure to nature, all of which can contribute to cognitive benefits.
The current study will complete its data-collection phase by the end of 2023. Results and findings on the combined effects of the MedWalk intervention on cognitive health are eagerly awaited. Stay tuned for updates on this intriguing study!
- The MedWalk intervention, a combination of the Mediterranean diet and regular walking, is currently being studied for its potential in reducing cognitive decline and various types of dementia, including Alzheimer's.
- Studies have suggested that following a Mediterranean diet could lead to fewer instances of dementia and Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia.
- Walking regularly has been associated with slower cognitive decline, with one study finding that taking 10,000 steps a day lowered the risk of dementia by 50%.
- The Mediterranean diet might support brain health by offering a wealth of antioxidants, combating oxidative stress and inflammation, and containing essential omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), crucial for brain health.
- Walking may improve brain health in one or more ways, such as increasing brain blood flow, boosting levels of brain activity, reducing stress, enhancing well-being, and incorporating social elements and exposure to nature.
- The study's team is interested in observing the intervention's impact on various aspects, including changes in visual memory and learning, mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, arterial stiffness, and more.
