Nutrition and cognitive health: A life course approach

This review explores how diet impacts brain health and cognitive function across the lifespan, emphasizing modifiable factors like nutrition, physical activity, and social-engagement. It highlights the role of dietary patterns like the Mediterranean and DASH diets in reducing cognitive decline and dementia risks. Micronutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to better cognitive health. The gut-brain axis, influenced by diet, also affects cognition. Recommendations include a balanced diet and early lifestyle changes to promote lifelong brain health.

Adopting a balanced diet like the Mediterranean or DASH diets can promote cognitive health, supported by this review's broad evidence base. Include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-rich foods like fish. However, since findings are drawn from observational and systematic reviews, individual results may vary, and long-term studies are needed for stronger conclusions.