Researchers have revealed that a new ‘Green Mediterranean’ diet plan may slash dementia risk and reduce ‘brain ageing’. The Mediterranean diet comes doctor and scientist-approved, thanks to its staples being fruit, vegetables and wholegrains, with various studies showing that following the plan can help to keep cognitive ability sharp. But now, researchers have revealed that a ‘tweaked’ version of this plan - that’s packed full of green tea, walnuts, and a special green smoothie - could prove far more effective at reducing dementia risk and slowing brain ageing.
For the study, Israeli researchers recruited 250 obese people to follow the new ‘tweaked’ version of the diet, with the results showing that it was effective for reducing high blood sugar, as well as getting metabolism under control. Interestingly, they also found that following this diet plan led to ‘neuroprotective benefits’, with visibly improved signs of slower brain ageing on brain scans of study participants. This suggests that by maintaining a healthier weight and reducing intake of processed foods, you can reduce neurodegeneration.
The participants were required to follow a ‘green’ version of the Mediterranean diet for a period of 18 months, during which they were expected to consume 28g of walnuts each day, three to four cups of green tea, and a green shake that had been made with globosa - a type of plant extract. The female participants were allowed between 1,200 to 1,400 calories .