Diet Doctor

How does your diet affect your memory?

A new study published in the journal Neurology has linked eating fewer fruits, vegetables, beans and tea with an increased risk of dementia, while eating more fish may decrease your chances of developing symptoms..

Many people mistakenly believe that their diet has no impact on their cognitive health in old age, but this study shows how dietary choices can affect your memory and ability to function well in old age.

Back In 2014 roughly 4 million adults over the age of 65 was suffering from dementia. That number will skyrocket to 14 million by 2060. The rate is increasing, and a new study finds that our dietary decisions may be the cause. The study, published in the journal Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, showed that an unhealthy diet deficient in fruits, vegetables, beans and tea is three more likely to lead to dementia.

A new study of more than 1,600 older adults found that those with diets low in fruit had more memory loss over a period of six years. In fact, every serving of fruit consumed each day lowered their risk of mild cognitive impairment by about 20 percent. As part of the study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, participants reported on their diets at three time points: at enrollment between 2003 and 2007; two years later; and six years later. Researchers used a common method for assessing diet quality known as the alternate healthy eating index 2010. Participants who consumed fewer servings of fruits (fewer than three per day) or vegetables (fewer than two per day) were considered to have lower diet quality. So most diet doctors will suggest increasing your fruits, beans and vegetable intake The study results suggest that a diet low in vegetables is associated with greater risk of dementia. The study also found that a diet high in fruit, beans, and tea is associated with reduced risk of dementia. In fact, I always recommend my patients get at least five servings of vegetables per day. If you feel like you need more guidance for starting a healthy diet, consider working with a nutritionist to help guide you through any changes needed.The take home message here: don’t skimp on fruits, vegetables, beans or tea when planning your weight loss diet! It could have long-term benefits to your brain health.Does this mean you should give up all these delicious foods to protect your memory? Not necessarily!