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Mediterranean Diet Prevents Aging of the Brain

Mediterranean Diet Prevents Aging of the Brain

A newly published  study from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, showed that older people who follow a Mediterranean diet may slow the loss of brain volume which naturally occurs as a  result of aging.

The Mediterranean diet is characterized by relatively  higher amounts of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, beans and whole grain foods. The presence in the Western diet of more processed foods, especially sugars, and hydrogenated oils, has long been thought to promote the development of a range of diseases and aging in general.

In this study the subjects brain volume was measured, and compared over a three year period. Those who closely followed the principles of the Mediterranean diet retained more of their original brain volume over the three-year period. This study of  nearly 1,000 Scottish people, on average seventy years of age, was published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Study author M. Luciano, PhD, of the U. of Edinburgh states,”As we age, the brain shrinks and we lose brain cells which can affect learning and memory. This study adds to the body of evidence that suggests the Mediterranean diet has a positive impact on brain health.”

Luciano noted that earlier studies looked at brain measurements at one point in time, whereas the current study followed people over time. “Larger studies are needed to confirm these results,” he says and also observes that, ” It’s possible that other components of the Mediterranean diet are responsible for this relationship, or that it’s due to all of the components in combination”.

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For the best care in Integrative Medicine call Henry C. Sobo, M.D., at 203-348-8805 or write us at [email protected]