5 Healthy Diets to Help Prevent Dementia.

5 Healthy Diets to Help Prevent Dementia. Research suggests that a healthy diet may help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Here are some key components of a healthy diet that may be beneficial for brain health. Mediterranean Diet. The Mediterranean diet is a plant-based diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, and low in red meat, processed foods, and saturated fats. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that following a Mediterranean diet was associated with a 30% reduction in the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. DASH Diet. The dietary approaches to stop hypertension – DASH – diet is a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products, and low in saturated fats, sugar, and salt. A study published in the Journal Alzheimer's and Dementia found that following a DASH diet was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Anti-Inflammatory Diet. An anti-inflammatory diet is a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fatty fish, and low in processed foods, red meat, and saturated fats. A study published in the Journal Nutrients found that following an anti-inflammatory diet was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. Plant-Based Diet. A plant-based diet is a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and may or may not include animal products in moderation. A study published in the Journal Nutrients found that following a plant-based diet was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Low Glycemic Index Diet. A low glycemic index, GI, diet is a diet that is low in foods that raise blood sugar levels quickly, such as refined carbohydrates and sugary foods, and high in foods that are slowly absorbed and have a lower impact on blood sugar levels, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. A study published in the Journal Nutrients found that following a low GI diet was associated Overall, a healthy diet that is rich in plant-based foods, lean protein, and healthy fats, and low in processed foods and saturated fats, may help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.