More reason to follow a Mediterranean-style diet: It’s good for the brain, suggested an analysis of data from nearly 8,000 U.S.adults, ages 50 to 85, in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
Those whose diets most adhered to that eating pattern at baseline—with lots of whole grains,vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish, legumes, and olive oil; little red meat; and moderate alcohol—scored higher on tests of cognitive function over the next two to 10 years than those whose diets adhered the least. High intake of fish and vegetables in particular was linked to better cognitive function. In addition, fish—but not the Mediterranean diet overall—was associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline over five to 10 years.
There are many other good reasons to follow a Mediterranean-style diet, including a lower risk of heart attack and stroke and possibly increased longevity.
