Dietary Patterns, Cognitive Function, and Brain Aging
Corley et al. (2020) present a study examining how dietary patterns influence cognitive function and brain aging in older adults. Using data from the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936, the research identifies associations between two dietary patterns—Mediterranean-style and processed diets—and cognitive performance, as well as structural neuroimaging markers of brain health.
Background
The research builds on growing evidence that diet plays a role in cognitive aging. Previous studies have suggested that the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, supports cognitive health. This study aims to explore these relationships in greater depth while also considering processed diets and their potential impacts on cognition and brain structure.
Key Insights
- Dietary Patterns Identified: The study categorized participants' eating habits into a Mediterranean-style diet, characterized by nutrient-rich foods, and a processed diet, which included higher consumption of red meats and processed foods.
- Cognitive Function and Diet: Adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet was linked to better verbal ability, although associations with other cognitive domains did not remain significant after statistical adjustments. Processed diets were linked to lower cognitive scores, but these were attenuated after accounting for childhood cognitive ability.
- Brain Structure and Diet: Neither dietary pattern showed significant associations with brain volumes or white matter microstructure, suggesting that diet impacts cognition through mechanisms beyond structural brain changes.
Significance
This study highlights the potential benefits of following a Mediterranean-style diet for preserving cognitive health in later life. Specific components, such as leafy greens and reduced red meat intake, appear particularly beneficial. However, the absence of strong links to brain structure suggests that cognitive benefits may arise from systemic or metabolic factors, rather than direct effects on brain anatomy.
Future Directions
Further research could focus on the mechanisms connecting diet and cognition, such as inflammation or vascular health. Additionally, longitudinal studies with diverse populations would help determine whether these findings apply more broadly or are specific to certain demographics.
Conclusion
Corley et al. (2020) contribute valuable insights into the relationship between diet and cognitive health. While the Mediterranean diet shows promise for supporting verbal abilities in older adults, the lack of structural brain associations underscores the complexity of diet's role in aging. Continued research in this area will help clarify how dietary habits influence long-term cognitive outcomes.
Reference:
Corley, J., Cox, S. R., Taylor, A. M., Hernandez, M. V., Maniega, S. M., Ballerini, L., Wiseman, S., Meijboom, R., Backhouse, E. V., Bastin, M. E., Wardlaw, J. M., & Deary, I. J. (2020). Dietary patterns, cognitive function, and structural neuroimaging measures of brain aging. Experimental Gerontology, 142, 111117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2020.111117
