Mental Sharpness: Adopting Mediterranean diet and staying active may provide defense against cognitive decline.
New and Improved Perspective:
A Groundbreaking Investigation: MedWalk and its Impact on Dementia and Cognitive Decline
Hey there! Let's dive into an intriguing study that combines the power of a Mediterranean diet and walking to potentially combat dementia and cognitive decline. Dubbed the "MedWalk intervention," this research is set to shake up our understanding of brain health.
It's all about that MedWalk life, a harmonious blend of the Mediterranean diet and regular physical activity, aimed at keeping our brains sharp and minds fit.
The study, which currently involves researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, was initially designed to span two years. But, just like everyone else, it's been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to some adjustments– primarily, a shift to a one-year follow-up period and a larger participant pool.
These fearless scientists are daring to delve deep, hoping to determine if the MedWalk lifestyle can offer protection against cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias.
The primary focus of the researchers is to assess the 12-month change in visual memory and learning among participants. However, they're also paying close attention to the intervention's effects on mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, arterial stiffness, and more.
Participants, aged 60 to 90, come from independent living retirement communities in South Australia and Victoria. In light of the pandemic, recruitment efforts have expanded to reach a wider community.
The research team is keeping a sharp eye on biomarkers related to cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress.
So, what does the MedWalk intervention look like? It's a two-pronged approach: dietary modification and a supervised walking regimen. Participants receive intensive support for the initial six months, followed by continued support for the next six months.
Think about it: a boost to brain power via incorporating key Mediterranean diet components, like extra-virgin olive oil, while also keeping your body in motion with regular group walks. The research team is even providing study participants with free extra-virgin olive oil to help them get started!
The Mediterranean Diet and Cognitive Health
Certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann, with a focus on the Mediterranean diet, chatted with Medical News Today.
Studies indicate that following the Mediterranean diet could lead to fewer cases of dementia. In fact, research from 2015, as well as two papers from 2023, revealed an association between the Mediterranean diet and lower rates of Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia.
However, it's imperative to remember that numerous variables can affect the risk of dementia, like genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is just one piece of a larger puzzle aimed at maintaining brain health and preventing dementia.
How Walking Can Benefit the Brain
Walking regularly is linked to slower cognitive decline as well. A 2020 study found a correlation between daily step count and reduced dementia risk.
Amazingly, taking 10,000 steps a day was estimated to lower the risk of dementia by half!
Other research has uncovered a link between walking speed and dementia, while a 2017 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlighted that aerobic exercise, such as walking, may strengthen cognitive impairment.
"Walking may up the ante for brain health in various ways," says brain health coach Ryan Glatt from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute. "For instance, walking may boost brain blood flow, depending on intensity, duration, and frequency. Walking can also benefit levels of brain activity and diminish feelings of overall stress while enhancing feelings of well-being."
Additionally, Glatt points out that walking often incorporates social elements and exposure to nature, both of which can have positive effects on the brain.
So, folks, keep your eyes peeled for the final results of this fascinating study. The data-collection period is nearing completion, with wrap-up happening by the end of 2023. Get ready to set your sights on the transformative power of this MedWalk intervention!
The MedWalk intervention, a combination of the Mediterranean diet and regular physical activity, aims to preserve cognitive abilities and ward off dementia.
Scientists from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are spearheading this groundbreaking research, seeking to determine if the MedWalk lifestyle offers protection against cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias.
Participants, aged 60 to 90, undertake a two-pronged approach: dietary modification and a supervised walking regimen, receiving support for a year.
Adhering to the Mediterranean diet, rich in extra-virgin olive oil, may reduce cases of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, as indicated by various studies.
Besides, regular walking is associated with slower cognitive decline, and a study estimated that taking 10,000 steps a day could lower the risk of dementia by half.
Brain health coach Ryan Glatt from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute emphasizes that walking can boost brain blood flow, enhance cognitive function, reduce stress, and provide social and natural benefits.
