Alzheimer’s Society comment on Mediterranean-type diet reducing Alzheimer’s risk, published in Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)

The study found that subjects who were very physically active had a 33 per cent risk reduction of Alzheimer's and those who adhered more strongly to a Mediterranean-type diet had a 40 per cent risk reduction. Those who combined these two factors had a 60 per cent reduction in their risk for developing Alzheimer's.

'Dementia is one of people's biggest fears in later life but very few people realise that there are things they can do to reduce their risk of developing this devastating condition. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that a healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce the chance of developing dementia.

'A Mediterranean diet full of green leafy vegetables, oily fish, nuts and low in saturated fats is an incredibly healthy approach to eating and may reduce your risk of developing dementia. This study suggests combining this diet with regular exercise is one of the best ways to cut your chances of developing dementia.'

'With one million people set to develop dementia in the next 10 years, it is essential that we act now to defeat it.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Reference: The study observed 1880 older subjects, with an average age of 77, in Northern Manhattan. Lead author is Nikos Scarmeas, MD, associate professor of clinical neurology in the Department of Neurology at Columbia University Medical Centre. It will appear in the Journal of the American Medical Association on August 12.

Ends


Notes to editors

• 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

For futher information please contact the press office on 0207 423 3595 or email press@alzheimers.org.uk