Diet and activity levels linked to preserving cognitive health, research suggests.
Rebel Assitant's Scoop on the MedWalk Intervention for Cognitive Health
Sick of hearing about diets and exercise being good for you? Well, buckle up because this time it's all about the brain! Researchers are conducting an ongoing study called the MedWalk intervention, exploring whether a Mediterranean diet and regular walking can lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's.
The MedWalk intervention combines two practices known to contribute to brain health: the Mediterranean diet and walking. But what's the twist? Instead of going at it alone, the study aims to see if these traditions might be even more effective when paired together.
Chowing Down and Stepping Out
The Mediterranean diet, world-renowned for its heart-health benefits, is now taking center stage for its cognitive prowess. The diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, and seafood, has been linked to fewer dementia cases. Add to that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and other essential nutrients, and it's a powerhouse for brain health!
But don't cancel that gym membership just yet! Walking has also been shown to make a significant difference in cognitive function. Research suggests that taking 10,000 steps daily can slash your dementia risk by half. That's quite the incentive to hit the pavement!
The Lowdown on the Study
The study, led by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, is currently underway, having been temporarily halted due to the pesky COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers have published data on their processes and ongoing analysis in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.
The primary focus of the study is a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants. But the researchers have their eyes on more than just that. They're interested in observing the MedWalk intervention's impact on mood, quality of life, and health costs, as well as cardiovascular health and arterial stiffness.
Participants, between 60 and 90 years old, are being recruited from independent living retirement communities in South Australia and Victoria. Given the circumstances, participants have also been recruited from the broader community.
The MedWalk Method
The MedWalk intervention combines dietary modification with a supervised walking regimen, fortified with psychosocial behavioral change techniques. Though the intervention is ongoing, participants receive intensive support for the initial 6 months, with additional help available for the following half-year, to keep them on track.
Researchers provide instruction on the key differences between the Mediterranean diet and the typical Australian diet, helping participants understand the concept and make informed choices. Goodies like extra-virgin olive oil and other Mediterranean diet staples are also provided to participants for free.
Upon initial assessment of participants' aerobic fitness, they engage in group walking sessions for the first 6 months, followed by monthly sessions for the remainder of the test year.
Brain Power
Certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann explains that while studies suggest a link between the Mediterranean diet and reduced dementia risk, it's crucial to remember that various factors can influence cognitive health. Middelmann stressed that adopting a healthy diet is merely one aspect of a broader approach to brain health and dementia prevention.
Middelmann points out that the Mediterranean diet offers numerous benefits for cognitive health, such as lower inflammation, improved blood flow, better cardiovascular health, and a balanced gut microbiome. The diet's association with social dining and regular exercise further enhances its cognitive-friendly reputation.
Similarly, walking has been linked to slow cognitive decline by promoting brain activity, reducing stress, and offering exposure to nature, all of which can have positive impacts on brain function.
Wrapping Up
The MedWalk intervention study is an intriguing experiment that, if successful, could offer a lifestyle-based strategy for reducing cognitive decline and dementia risk. With its blend of the Mediterranean diet and regular walking, it's a game-changer in the world of cognitive health. Stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing study!
- The MedWalk intervention, a study on cognition and dementia prevention, combines the Mediterranean diet and walking, both known for their brain health benefits.
- The Mediterranean diet, rich in whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, and seafood, has been associated with fewer dementia cases, owing to its omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients.
- Scientific research suggests that taking 10,000 steps daily could reduce dementia risk by half, highlighting the importance of physical activity like walking for maintaining cognitive function.
- The ongoing study on MedWalk intervention is currently being led by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, with a primary focus on visual memory and learning changes in participants over a 12-month period.
- Participating in the study, open to those between 60 and 90 years old, includes not only support for dietary modification and a walking regimen but also psychosocial behavioral change techniques to ensure long-term success.
- The MedWalk intervention's holistic approach to cognitive health aims to combat dementia and slow cognitive decline by promoting a healthy diet, exercise, and mental wellness, considering various factors that contribute to optimal brain function.
