Maintaining Cognitive Wellness: Adopting Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle as Potential Protective Measures
** Study Investigates Combined Effect of Mediterranean Diet and Walking on Dementia and Cognitive Decline **
Researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom are examining the potential benefits of a combined Mediterranean diet and walking regimen on dementia and cognitive decline. The study, known as the "MedWalk intervention," has already shown promising links between these habits and brain health.
Previous research has suggested that both the Mediterranean diet and regular walking can contribute to improved brain health. However, this current study aims to ascertain the combined impact, optimizing cognitive health. The ongoing research has been slightly modified due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the follow-up period reduced and a broader sample of participants recruited.
The primary focus of the study is a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants. In addition, researchers will observe the intervention's effects on mood, quality of life, health costs, and cardiovascular health, among other factors. Participants, 60 to 90 years old, are being enrolled from independent living retirement communities in South Australia and Victoria.
Initially planned for a 2-year period, the study now seeks to observe participants over a single year due to pandemic-related timing and financial adjustments. The participating individuals are assigned to either a MedWalk intervention group or a control group.
The MedWalk intervention consists of a modified diet with guidance on the Mediterranean lifestyle and a supervised walking program. Participants receive support during the first 6 months of the program, with additional assistance available for the next 6 months. To facilitate understanding, the researchers provide educational materials about the Mediterranean diet.
It has long been suggested that following a Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of dementia, according to studies from various sources, including one from JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015. Other research, such as one from Neurology in 2023, found a link between a Mediterranean diet and lower rates of Alzheimer's disease.
Regular walking is also associated with slower cognitive decline. A respective study found a dose-dependent relationship, demonstrating that taking 10,000 steps a day lowered the risk of dementia by 50%. Moreover, various studies have shown that aerobic exercise like walking can strengthen cognitive impairment.
While the data-collection period will conclude by the end of 2023, the full findings of the MedWalk intervention study are not yet available. Nevertheless, experts like Conner Middelmann, a certified nutritionist specializing in the Mediterranean diet, have offered insights into the possible benefits of both the Mediterranean diet and regular exercise on cognitive function.
- The MedWalk intervention, combining a Mediterranean diet and walking, is being studied by researchers for its potential benefits on dementia and cognitive decline.
- The study, which initially focused on a 2-year period, is now observing participants for a single year due to pandemic-related timing and financial adjustments.
- Participating individuals are either assigned to a MedWalk intervention group or a control group, receiving support for their dietary changes and walking routine over a period of 6 months.
- Studies have suggested that following a Mediterranean diet may lower the risk of dementia, as evidenced by research from sources like JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015.
- Regular walking has been linked to slower cognitive decline, with one study demonstrating that taking 10,000 steps a day could potentially lower the risk of dementia by 50%.
- Experts such as Conner Middelmann, a certified nutritionist specializing in the Mediterranean diet, have offered insights into the possible benefits of both the Mediterranean diet and regular exercise on cognitive function.
