Healthy Cognitive Functions: Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle as Potential Protectors
A research study is currently investigating the combined impact of a Mediterranean diet and regular walking on dementia and cognitive decline, referred to as the "MedWalk intervention." This intervention is a combination of dietary modification and supervised walking, with psychosocial behavioral change techniques, aiming to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's.
The study, which has been briefly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, involves participants aged 60 to 90 from South Australia and Victoria, Australia. Originally designed to assess cognition over two years, the study's duration has been reduced to one year due to pandemic-related timing and financial implications.
Researchers are primarily interested in observing a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants. Additionally, they aim to assess the intervention's effect on areas such as mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, and arterial stiffness.
The MedWalk intervention is made up of a Mediterranean diet and a walking regimen. Participants receive guidance on how a Mediterranean diet differs from a typical Australian diet and receive free extra-virgin olive oil, a core component of the Mediterranean diet. They also participate in group walking sessions for six months, followed by monthly sessions for the remaining period.
Previous research has suggested that both a Mediterranean diet and regular walking may contribute to brain health. A Mediterranean diet is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and low in processed grains and sugars, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Walking has been linked to slower cognitive decline, improved brain blood flow, increased brain activity, reduced stress, and improved feelings of well-being.
While the study's data collection period will conclude by the end of 2023, it is essential to consider that numerous factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health, can influence dementia risk. Therefore, adopting a healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to maintaining brain health and preventing dementia.
- The MedWalk intervention, which combines a Mediterranean diet and regular walking, is designed to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's.
- The study investigating the MedWalk intervention is currently underway in South Australia and Victoria, Australia, and involves participants aged 60 to 90.
- Researchers are primarily interested in observing a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants, but also plan to assess the intervention's effect on areas such as mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, and arterial stiffness.
- Previous research has suggested that both a Mediterranean diet and regular walking may contribute to brain health, as the Mediterranean diet is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and low in processed grains and sugars, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Walking has been linked to slower cognitive decline, improved brain blood flow, increased brain activity, reduced stress, and improved feelings of well-being.
- While the adoption of a healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to maintaining brain health and preventing dementia, it is essential to consider that numerous factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health, can influence dementia risk.
