Healthy Diet May Lower Dementia Risk

By Bill Freeman

Eating a healthy diet may help to lower the risk of developing dementia, say researchers. The study of more than 1,600 elderly people found that those who ate a low-fat balanced diet were the least likely to suffer from cognitive problems. Results also suggested that consuming moderate amounts of alcohol may boost mental capacity.

Eating a healthy diet may help to lower the risk of developing dementia, say researchers. The study of more than 1,600 elderly people found that those who ate a low-fat balanced diet were the least likely to suffer from cognitive problems. Results also suggested that consuming moderate amounts of alcohol may boost mental capacity. Although it is unclear as to how eating healthily helps to preserve cognitive function, researchers speculate that antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E may be important.

SOURCE/REFERENCE: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2001; 55:1053-1058