Green Mediterranean Diet Slows Brain Aging
- This article discusses a study investigating the impact of the Green Mediterranean Diet on brain aging.
- * Green Mediterranean Diet Slows Brain Aging: Researchers found that following a Green Mediterranean diet for 18 months was associated wiht decreased levels of two proteins (galectin-9 and...
- * High intake of: Fruits,vegetables,whole grains,healthy fats (nuts,seeds,olive oil) * Moderate intake of: Dairy,fish,red wine * Low intake of: Red meat,eggs,processed foods,refined grains,added sugars.
Summary of the Article: Green Mediterranean Diet & Brain Aging
This article discusses a study investigating the impact of the Green Mediterranean Diet on brain aging. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Key Findings:
* Green Mediterranean Diet Slows Brain Aging: Researchers found that following a Green Mediterranean diet for 18 months was associated wiht decreased levels of two proteins (galectin-9 and decorin) linked to accelerated brain aging.
* Biomarker Changes: The study tracked changes in 87 blood protein biomarkers to understand how diet affects the biological processes of aging. This allows for detection of changes before symptoms appear.
* Polyphenol Rich: The Green Mediterranean diet focuses on foods rich in polyphenols, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
What is the Green Mediterranean Diet?
It’s a modified Mediterranean diet emphasizing:
* High intake of: Fruits,vegetables,whole grains,healthy fats (nuts,seeds,olive oil)
* Moderate intake of: Dairy,fish,red wine
* Low intake of: Red meat,eggs,processed foods,refined grains,added sugars.
* Specifically,it reduces animal products in favor of more plant-based foods. The study incorporated walnuts, green tea, and Mankai (an aquatic superfood).
Study Details:
* Participants: Nearly 300 participants in the DIRECT PLUS trial.
* Diet Groups: Participants were randomly assigned to one of three diets:
* Standard healthy diet
* Customary Mediterranean diet with walnuts
* Green Mediterranean diet (low in red/processed meat, high in plant-based foods, walnuts, green tea, Mankai)
* Measurements: Brain age was measured using MRIs, and blood protein biomarkers were analyzed.
Overall Conclusion:
The Green Mediterranean diet appears to be a powerful tool for protecting brain health and potentially slowing the aging process by positively influencing biological markers in the blood. It’s highlighted as a beneficial dietary pattern for maintaining cognitive function as we age.