Chinese Version of MIND Diet Linked to Reduced Cognitive Decline in Older Individuals

A new study conducted in China has found that adhering to the Chinese version of the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older individuals. The cMIND diet, which emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods such as berries and green leafy vegetables while minimizing animal-based and high-saturated fat foods, has previously shown potential in mitigating cognitive impairment.

The three-year prospective cohort study involved 6411 participants with normal cognitive function and aimed to explore the causal relationship between the cMIND diet and cognitive function. Participants completed a baseline food frequency questionnaire to determine their cMIND diet scores. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).

The study revealed a mean dietary score of 4.7±1.5, indicating the positive impact of the cMIND dietary pattern on cognitive function in older Chinese individuals. Consuming higher quantities of fresh fruits and nuts was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment.

The researchers also identified characteristics associated with higher mean dietary scores, including being male, having higher education levels, being married, achieving economic independence, being professionally employed, living with family, engaging in regular exercise, and consuming higher quantities of vitamins A, C, and E. They highlighted that these factors should be considered in trials focusing on lifestyle and cognition.

It is worth noting that previous research on the MIND diet primarily involved Caucasians of European descent, while this study includes Chinese individuals. This ethnic difference could contribute to the observed discrepancies in outcomes.

The study suggests that while adopting the cMIND diet could be a viable strategy to mitigate cognitive decline in older adults, a three-year diet regimen may not be sufficient to significantly reduce the risk of cognitive impairment. The researchers emphasized the importance of dietary diversity as a modifiable behavioral factor in addressing cognitive decline.

This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the beneficial effects of the MIND diet and its Chinese version in promoting cognitive health. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact and feasibility of implementing this dietary approach in different populations.