Effect of Mediterranean Diet on Cognitive Decline Differs Among Races

Research has highlighted the broad health benefits of consuming a rich Mediterranean diet but a new study says the impact of this diet differs among race-specific population.

The Mediterranean diet has gained in popularity for its health benefits but a new research sheds light on its differing effects on various ethnic populations.

Studies conducted earlier have highlighted the link between adherence to Mediterranean diet and reduced risk of age-related diseases like dementia. A new eight-year study led by Ben-Gurion University and other institutions measured the effects of adherence to a Mediterranean diet.

To study the association between MedDiet score and brain functions, the researchers worked on data retrieved from the Modified Mini-Mental State Examinations (3MS) that included 2,326 older adults of ages 70-79.

The 3MS is used extensively to measure several cognitive domains to screen for learning  impairments. It is more commonly used to screen dementia.

"In a population of initially well-functioning older adults, we found a significant correlation between strong adherence to the Mediterranean diet and a slower rate of cognitive decline among African American, but not white, older adults. Our study is the first to show a possible race-specific association between the Mediterranean diet and cognitive decline," researchers say.

In order to confirm the association between MedDiet and cognitive decline, the researchers emphasize on the need for further studies in diverse population.

The finding was documented in the Journal of Gerontology.