The first systematic review of related research has confirmed that a Mediterranean diet - with high intake of olive oil, fish, fruit, vegetables - has a positive impact on cognitive function.
Over recent years many pieces of research have identified a link between adherence to a Mediterranean diet and a lower risk of age-related disease such as dementia. Now this systematic review of such research confirms the link.
The team analysed 12 eligible pieces of research, 11 observational studies and one randomised control trial. In nine out of the 12 studies, a higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with better cognitive function, lower rates of cognitive decline and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
However, results for mild cognitive impairment were inconsistent.
Read more at University of Exeter