Dietary Patterns Associated with the Maintenance of Cognitive Function in Elderly

Abstract

Nutrition is the most important lifestyle factor that can reduce the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in elderly. Epidemiological data support the possible protective effects of Mediterranean, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) dietary patterns, which are healthy dietary models in preventing or delaying cognitive decline and dementia. Limited number of clinical studies has demonstrated a protective relationship between cognitive outcomes and consumption of seafood, nuts, vegetables and fruits. It is suggested that healthy dietary models are more effective than a single food or food group in preventing cognitive health. In elderly adults, it is important to maintain healthy nutrition not only in old age but throughout the life, to slow down and prevent cognitive aging before symptoms of cognitive decline and dementia occur. Therefore, more clinical research is required with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up times to determine the dietary factors and their underlying mechanisms related cognitive function in aging populations. In this review, dietary models that can be effective in preventing cognitive function in elderly adults were examined in the light of the current knowledge.