Mental Sharpness Preservation: Adhering to Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle could potentially offer protection
The "MedWalk" study is currently investigating if combining a Mediterranean diet and regular walking can help lower the risk of cognitive decline and various types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's. This research, led by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, initially aimed for a 2-year follow-up period but has been impacted by COVID-19, reducing it to a single year.
In the "MedWalk" intervention, participants adopt a Mediterranean-style diet, which is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and low in processed grains and ultra-processed foods. Additionally, their physical activity is increased through a supervised walking regimen. The participants receive support for the first 6 months, with extended assistance for the subsequent 6 months to help maintain the new lifestyle habits.
Experts have pointed out the individual benefits of both the Mediterranean diet and regular walking. For instance, Conner Middelmann, a certified nutritionist specializing in Mediterranean diets, notes that many studies suggest a link between the Mediterranean diet and lower rates of dementia, attributing this effect to the diet's antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
Walking regularly is also associated with improved brain health, with several studies suggesting a lower risk of dementia as step count increases. The mechanism behind this benefit is believed to involve increased brain blood flow, better levels of brain activity, reduced stress, feelings of well-being, and social and nature-related elements associated with walking.
The "MedWalk" study, ongoing since 2020, is expected to finalize its data collection by the end of 2023. While its findings may not change the overall approach to dementia prevention, they could contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects of these health-promoting activities on brain health.
- The ongoing "MedWalk" study, affected by COVID-19, is exploring if a Mediterranean diet combined with walking can lower the risk of cognitive decline and diverse types of dementia like Alzheimer's.
- This research, led by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, involves participants adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and low in processed grains.
- Participants also engage in a supervised walking regimen as part of the "MedWalk" intervention, receiving support for the first 6 months, with extended assistance for the following 6 months.
- Experts, such as Conner Middelmann, a certified nutritionist specializing in Mediterranean diets, have noted the individual benefits of both the Mediterranean diet and regular walking, citing numerous studies suggesting a link between the Mediterranean diet and reduced dementia rates.
- Walking regularly is also associated with improved brain health, as its benefits include increased brain blood flow, better levels of brain activity, reduced stress, and positive feelings of well-being.
- The findings from the "MedWalk" study, due to be finalized by the end of 2023, might not revolutionize the approach to dementia prevention but could provide a more nuanced understanding of the synergistic effects of these health-promoting activities on brain health.
