Research Finds That The Mediterranean Diet May Contribute To Better Brain Health

There have been multiple studies which have explored the benefit of the Mediterranean diet; one found that pasta may help you retain a low BMI, while another found that the fats in the Mediterranean diet are vastly beneficial to the health. Now, another group of researchers have found that the Mediterranean diet may help improve and maintain brain health.

The Mediterranean diet includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and poultry. Instead of butter, healthy fats like olive oil are used and instead of salt, herbs and spices tend to flavour dishes. Red wine in moderate amounts is also a part of the diet.

Studying the Diet’s Effects On Brain Volume

For the study, researchers from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland studied the eating habits of 967 Scottish people ages around 70. At 70, participants in the study were asked to fill out a dietary frequency form that would give researchers a look at what they consumed as well as what they avoided. They divided the responses into two groups; those who ate foods that belong in the Mediterranean diet on a fairly regular basis were placed in one group while those who consumed other foods were placed in another.

The participants’ brain volumes were measured when they turned 73 and 76. The researchers found that those who had a diet similar to the Mediterranean diet had significantly less loss in brain volume.

Lead researcher Dr Michelle Luciano, from the University of Edinburgh, said: “As we age, the brain shrinks and we lose brain cells, which can affect learning and memory .”This study adds to the body of evidence that suggests the Mediterranean diet has a positive impact on brain health.”

The study, which was published in Neruology, suggests further research on the benefits of the Mediterranean diet on brain health.