Prudent diet may attenuate the adverse effects of Western diet on cognitive decline.

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION:

The influence of mixed dietary patterns on cognitive changes is unknown.

METHODS:

A total of 2223 dementia-free participants aged ≥60 were followed up for 6 years to examine the impact of dietary patterns on cognitive decline. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was administered. Diet was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. By factor analysis, Western and prudent dietary patterns emerged. Mixed-effect models for longitudinal data with repeated measurements were used.

RESULTS:

Compared with the lowest adherence to each pattern, the highest adherence to prudent pattern was related to less MMSE decline (β = 0.106, P = .011), whereas the highest adherence to Western pattern was associated with more MMSE decline (β = -0.156, P < .001). The decline associated with Western diet was attenuated when accompanied by high adherence to prudent pattern.

DISCUSSION:

High adherence to prudent diet may diminish the adverse effects of high adherence to Western diet on cognitive decline.