A new study suggests that Mediterranean and green-MED diets, rich in polyphenols from sources like green tea and Mankai, may slow brain aging and reduce neurodegeneration. Blood sugar control plays a key role in preserving brain volume. Study: Glycemic control contributes to the neuroprotective effects of Mediterranean and green-Mediterranean diets on brain age: the DIRECT PLUS brain-magnetic resonance imaging randomized controlled trial .
Image Credit: Pacorpi/Shutterstock.com In a recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , scientists investigated how specific dietary factors affected brain volume relative to chronological age. Using longitudinal data, they examined the effects of the Mediterranean and green Mediterranean diets on hippocampal occupancy measures to assess brain aging and determine whether improved glycemic control could improve brain health.
Background The brain undergoes a natural process of shrinkage or atrophy with age, which is also linked to cognitive decline with progressing age. While the natural rate of brain atrophy with age is unavoidable, certain illnesses and conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, inflammation, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, can accelerate the rate of cognitive impairment and brain atrophy. Type 2 diabetes has been linked to significant brain atrophy, especially in the hippocampus, which is critical for memory and is also affected by Alzheimer's disease.
Individuals with a long history of diab.