Switch to Mediterranean diet to boost your memory in old age: Study

Mediterranean food lovers can now rejoice as a latest study has showed that the food can actually improve the memory retention skills in old age. The study which is published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society showed that older people who consumed a Mediterranean diet had 35 percent lower risk of performing poorly on cognitive tests. Those who ate a moderate Mediterranean diet had a 15 percent lower risk of doing poorly on the same tests as compared to those who don’t consume the diet at all.

The diet extremely rich in vegetables, fruits, proteins and whole grains is known for its healthy nutritive value. In case, you are a health freak, then the diet is like a cherry on the cake for you.

The research suggested that consumption of Mediterranean and MIND-style diets can be linked to improved cognitive function in older adults. As a matter of fact, MIND-style diet is a version of Mediterranean diet which include 15 different types of foods. Ten of the food items- green leafy vegetables, nuts, whole grains, berries, poultry, other vegetables, wine, beans, seafood and olive oil are considered to be healthy. The other five- butter & stick margarine, red meat, cheese, sweets & fried/fast foods and pastries are considered to be unhealthy. 

The researchers collected data from 5,907 older adults who were part of the health and retirement study. The participants were required to fill the questionnaire related to their eating habits. The team, then examined the participants’ cognitive abilities- mostly the memory and attention skills. 
The results showed that those older adults who consumed Mediterranean and MIND-style diets did pretty well on the cognitive function tests as compared to those who consumed a lesser healthy diet. It was also found that older adults who followed this diet had lower risk of having cognitive impairment in their later life.

When it comes to Mediterranean food, one has a variety of options to choose from. Mediterranean delicacies like hummus, Mediterranean veggies & chicpea salad, falafel, Mediterranean pita wrap & sandwich and Greek chicken salad will definitely satisfy the foodie in you. Indeed, following a Mediterranean diet is the perfect way to lead a healthy lifestyle.