Prudent diet may attenuate the adverse effects of Western diet on cognitive decline

Alzheimers Dement. 2016 Feb;12(2):100-109. doi: 10.1016/j.jalz.2015.08.002. Epub 2015 Sep 3.

Abstract

Introduction: The influence of mixed dietary patterns on cognitive changes is unknown.

Methods: A total of 2223 dementia-free participants aged ≥60 were followed up for 6 years to examine the impact of dietary patterns on cognitive decline. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was administered. Diet was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. By factor analysis, Western and prudent dietary patterns emerged. Mixed-effect models for longitudinal data with repeated measurements were used.

Results: Compared with the lowest adherence to each pattern, the highest adherence to prudent pattern was related to less MMSE decline (β = 0.106, P = .011), whereas the highest adherence to Western pattern was associated with more MMSE decline (β = -0.156, P < .001). The decline associated with Western diet was attenuated when accompanied by high adherence to prudent pattern.

Discussion: High adherence to prudent diet may diminish the adverse effects of high adherence to Western diet on cognitive decline.

Keywords: Cognitive decline; Dietary patterns; Longitudinal study; Population-based.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cognitive Dysfunction / prevention & control*
  • Diet, Mediterranean*
  • Diet, Western / adverse effects*
  • Energy Intake / physiology
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Risk Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires