Studies have shown that our diet quality may support the risk of cognitive decline (Cognitive decline simply means that the brain doesn't work as well as it used to) which include memory and thinking skills. With the link that poor diet reveals a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Research studies indicates that maintaining a heart-healthy diet is associated with cognitive decline
However, this happens to be the first large study that will examine the association between diet quality and cognitive impairment, which includes loss of memory, speed of response and judgment.
It has been observed by Dr. Pillai, a neurologist for quite a while that a good diet is related to cardiovascular health,” and finally concluded: "we’re seeing that the choice of diet not only affects the heart health, but also cognition.”
He states clearly that cardiac risks are linked to worse cognitive function later in life.
Study participants (Aged 55-years or older) were followed for nearly five years or until they experienced a heart attack, stroke, hospitalization from heart failure or death.
Firstly, at the beginning of the study, test subject thinking and memory skills were tested and again after two years, then once more after about five years.
They were also accessed base on their dietary intake. The subject that ate healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, soy and protein scored higher than those who ate Deep fried foods.
Dr. Pillai says, "the test subject with higher values shows a slower rate of decline” and 14% of the test subject with the healthiest diet had cognitive decline. About 18% of the test subject with the least healthy diets experienced cognitive decline.
Diet was observed to have more impact than previously thought
In reference to this research, the best evidence in reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia is the positive impact of regular exercise.
Also, diet has more impact on brain health than we’ve previously thought.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, moderate alcohol use and very little red meat seems to be best.