Study: Early Diet Including Avocado and Wholegrains Linked to Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

A recent study suggests that eating certain foods early in life can help protect against cognitive decline later on. Researchers examined the diets and cognitive abilities of over 3,000 Brits over a 70-year period and found that diets rich in unprocessed leafy green vegetables, beans, whole fruits, and whole grains were the most protective.

The study found that only seven percent of those who ate these foods early in life experienced low cognitive ability in old age, which can be a precursor to dementia. In contrast, 92 percent of those who consumed diets high in salt, added sugars, and refined grains had low cognitive ability in old age.

The findings highlight the importance of establishing healthy dietary patterns early in life to support brain health throughout the aging process. Researchers noted that the dietary patterns established in childhood tend to continue into later life, for better or worse.

The study, presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Chicago, underscores the benefits of incorporating more whole or less processed plant-based foods into one’s diet. These foods are high in antioxidants, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats, which help protect the brain and combat harmful substances.

The research suggests that making improvements to dietary patterns, especially early in life, can have a sustained impact on cognitive performance and help mitigate cognitive decline in later years. While the findings have yet to be peer-reviewed, they provide valuable insights into the role of diet in maintaining cognitive health.

With dementia affecting nearly 1 million Brits and 7 million Americans, the study offers important implications for public health guidance and the promotion of brain-healthy eating habits. As researchers continue to explore the link between diet and cognitive function, these findings provide valuable information on how food choices can influence brain health over the lifespan.