Mediterranean Diet: One Key to Vascular Dementia Prevention

Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia behind Alzheimer's disease. However its cause is much different to that of Alzheimer's disease. Vascular dementia involves parts of the brain being starved of oxygen due to defects in blood vessels. So it may come as no surprise that the Mediterranean diet which is high in antioxidant and healthy fats has been shown to help prevent Vascular dementia.

A new study examined 712 people over the age of 65. These people were asked about their diet and then underwent an MRI 6 years later. Researchers found that those eating diets close to a Mediterranean diet were 36% less likely to have areas of brain damage associated with Vascular dementia. So lets examine the Mediterranean diet more closely to see why this is the case.

The Mediterranean diet includes a lot of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes and healthy fats such as from fish and olive oil. It is also lower in saturated fats and cholesterol. So what does this mean? We know that saturated fats and cholesterol over time damage blood vessels and can lead to blockages that cause Vascular dementia. Fruits and vegetables contain many polyphenols. They protect against free radical damage which is another leading cause of vascular dementia. Both omega 3 fatty acids and olive oils help to keep the blood vessels clear of plaque and fat buildup that can block them. They also inhibit inflammation and so reduce the damage caused when the immune system reacts to plaque buildup. Finally whole grains and legumes are generally low GI (Glycemic Index). Low GI foods help maintain normal blood glucose/Insulin balance. This prevents formation of type 2 diabetes and also large sugar spikes both of which can cause damage to blood vessels and hence vascular dementia.

Not only is there evidence of the Mediterranean diet's ability to prevent vascular dementia as a whole but there is even more supporting evidence for all the components that make up the diet. Not only is the Mediterranean diet very healthy but it also tastes extremely good too. I encourage people to learn a few recipes. It will be well worth it.