Eat like the Greeks to boost your brainpower

Washington, Apr 27 (ANI): People who eat a classic Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, cereals and fish improve their brainpower, says an ongoing prospective study.

Called the Chicago Health and Aging Project, the study has shown that adherence to the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of cognitive decline with older age.

"This diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, fish, olive oil, lower meat consumption, and moderate wine and non-refined grain intake," said lead author Dr. Christy Tangney of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. "Instead of espousing avoidance of foods, the data support that adults over age 65 should look to include more olive oil, legumes, nuts, and seeds in their diet in order to improve their recall times and other cognitive skills, such as identifying symbols and numbers."

The nearly 4,000 participants in this study included black and white adults aged 65 and older. They were given a battery of cognitive tests which were assigned scores and then a clinical interview. Those who ranked in the highest in terms of following such a Mediterranean-type diet were more protected from cognitive decline. The adults were given these cognitive tests every 3 years for 15 years.

"Finally, we want older adults to remember that physical activity is an important part of maintaining cognitive skills," added Tangney.

The finding has been presented at the Experimental Biology 2010 Meeting in Anaheim as part of the scientific program of the American Society for Nutrition. (ANI)