A Mediterranean Diet Could Boost the Brain (Photo : REUTERS/ALBERT GEA)
A recent study revealed that a simple Mediterranean diet accompanied with antioxidant rich foods can enhance mental ability.
The research findings published this week in the JAMA Internal Medicine journal claim scientific methods were applied to test the effects of diet on health. The study is an extension of an indepth research into dietary benefits derived from a Mediterranean diet when coupled with supplements such as olive oil and nuts which are rich in phenolic compounds.
Another benefit of a Mediterranean diet the study claimed is the ability to reverse the effects of aging. Dr. Emilio Ros who led the study at the University of Barcelona told the Wall Street Journal observational studies had indicated that a Mediterranean diet had the potential to drastically reduce dementia.
Essentially, a Mediterranean diet entails the consumption of more fish, fruit and vegetables, along with unprocessed beans and grain varieties.
The diet also permits wine but promotes a minimal consumption of meats and dairy products. The study involved more than 400 healthy participants between the ages of 55 and 80.
Jane Cerhan, a clinical neuropsychologist in Rochester, commented on the findings saying the study proved that cognitive abilities declined less on such a diet as carried out in the study.
According to Cerhan, said it would be beneficial to include 5 tablespoons of olive oil and a fistful of nuts into a daily diet to fully reap the benefits of the Mediterranean diet.
Dr. Ros said if individuals are capable of delaying age related mental decline, tasks could be processed at a faster pace, thereby boosting cognitive abilities. He said it was the first time the influence of a dietary pattern on health was explored in a random manner.
