you happier). Strict follow-up to the Mediterranean diet helps maintain brain volume. The study involved 967 Scots at about 70 years of age, who are brain-scanning. Three years later, 401 of them returned for a second scan. Meanwhile, they observe the so-called Mediterranean diet and report how strictly they have been to it.
The results show that compliance with the Mediterranean diet is associated with less brain loss. Dr. Michele Luciano, lead author of the study, explains:
"With age, our brain shrinks and we lose brain cells that affect our learning and memory. This study complements the existing evidence that the Mediterranean diet has a positive impact on brain health. "
Unlike previous studies, however, no differences were found regarding whether fish or meat is eaten. Other studies have demonstrated that more frequent fish consumption and lower meat are more useful for brain health.
According to Dr. Luciano:
"It is possible that other components of the Mediterranean diet may be responsible for this interrelation or that it is due to all components in combination.
In our study, dietary habits have been measured before brain volume, suggesting that the diet has the potential to provide long-term protection for the brain.
Yet, more extensive research is needed to confirm these results. "
Here are the typical ingredients of the Mediterranean diet:
Green leafy vegetables,
other vegetables,
nuts,
berries,
beans,
whole grains,
fish,
chicken,
olive oil
and wine.
The Mediterranean diet includes relatively small amounts of red meat, a few dairy products and uses olive oil as the main source of fat.
The Mediterranean diet has also been repeatedly associated with a protective effect against depression.
The study was published in the scientific journal Neurology .