RESOURCE
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January 20, 2023

Trial of the MIND Diet for Prevention of Cognitive Decline in Older Persons

Research
The New England Journal of Medicine
SUMMARY

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of the MIND diet on preventing cognitive decline over three years in older adults with risk factors for dementia. While both the MIND diet and a control diet (with caloric restriction) improved cognitive scores slightly, there was no significant difference between groups in cognitive performance or brain imaging markers (e.g., hippocampal volume). The findings suggest that the MIND diet alone may not strongly impact cognitive decline in high-risk populations.

RECOMMENDATION

While this study did not find significant cognitive benefits from the MIND diet, adopting it could still be part of a healthy lifestyle given its proven cardiovascular benefits. Include leafy greens, berries, nuts, and olive oil while minimizing processed foods. Broader effects might require longer follow-up or combined interventions like exercise.

TAGS
MIND diet; cognitive decline; dementia prevention; randomized controlled trial; brain imaging; hippocampal volume; caloric restriction; neurodegenerative delay; brain health; dietary interventions
DEEP DIVE