Plant-Based Diets May Reduce The Risk Of Alzheimer’s And Dementia

A new study suggests that consuming a healthful plant-based diet may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and other dementias, while an unhealthful diet is associated with a higher risk of developing these conditions. A healthy plant-based diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, vegetable oils, nuts, legumes, tea, and coffee, while an unhealthy plant-based diet consists of added sugars, fruit juices, refined grains, and potatoes commonly found in fast foods.

The research, conducted with nearly 93,000 participants over an average of 11 years, revealed that those who consumed more plant foods had a 12% lower risk of dementia, whereas those with unhealthy diets experienced a 25% higher risk. Changing to a healthier diet later in life also showed benefits in reducing dementia risk. While the study emphasizes the importance of a high-quality plant-based diet, further research is needed to definitively prove the link between diet and dementia risk.