Mediterranean diet decreases dementia
Published 14 July 2009
Research released at the International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease suggests that adhering to a Mediterranean diet may decrease risk of dementia.
It is also linked to benefits for people with high blood pressure or pre-hypertension.
The study used a survey which included a cognitive assessment and food frequency questions in order to observe developments across an 11 year period. The results suggested a diet which included vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy and nuts may aid cognitive function.
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Reference: Wengreen, RD, PHD. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet adherance scores and cognitive decline and dementia among aging men and women: Cashe County study of Memory Health and Ageing. Abstract
Notes to editors
The study used a survey which included a cognitive assessment and food frequency questions in order to observe developments across an 11 year period. The results suggested a diet which included vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy and nuts may aid cognitive function.
'The study adds weight to a growing body of evidence which suggests that a Mediterranean diet full of green leafy vegetables, oily fish and the odd glass of red wine is the best type of diet for those who want to follow a diet that can help lower their chances of developing dementia. Some studies have shown this can type of diet can reduce your risk by up to 40%.'
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Reference: Wengreen, RD, PHD. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet adherance scores and cognitive decline and dementia among aging men and women: Cashe County study of Memory Health and Ageing. Abstract
Notes to editors
- International Conference of Alzheimer's Disease runs from 11 - 16 July
2009 for further information please visit ICAD
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
