Plant-Based Diets May Protect Women From Cognitive Decline

A study conducted on 5,116 women found that those who followed a predominantly plant-based diet in their forties were less likely to experience memory loss and cognitive issues later in life, such as Alzheimer’s Disease. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, rich in plant foods and nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, was shown to help prevent cognitive decline by reducing the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Other studies have also highlighted the benefits of plant-based foods in preserving cognitive function in older age. Consuming foods rich in polyphenols, such as fruits, nuts, and vegetables, have been linked to reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, eating mushrooms like shiitake and white button mushrooms has been shown to cut the risk of mild cognitive impairment in half. Overall, starting a healthy diet in midlife, especially one that includes more plant-based foods, may be crucial in preventing cognitive impairment in older age.