Women Over 40 Who Adopt the DASH Diet Could Reduce Risk of Cognitive Decline, Study Finds
Women over the age of 40 who adopt the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet may have a lower risk of cognitive decline as they age, according to a recent study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. The study, conducted by researchers from the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, found that women who followed the DASH diet during middle age were about 17% less likely to experience memory loss and other signs of cognitive decline later in life.
The DASH diet focuses on plant-based foods that are rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein, while limiting saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar. The researchers surveyed 5,116 women in their 40s about their dietary habits. These women were participants in the New York University Women’s Health Study between 1985 and 1991. More than 30 years later, the researchers followed up with the women and asked if they had experienced any of six warning signs of cognitive decline.
Notably, women who followed the DASH diet reported these occurrences 17% less often than those who did not. Yu Chen, PhD, MPH, professor in the Department of Population Health at NYU Grossman and senior author of the study, stated that the findings were not surprising to the research team. “Recent trial studies have indicated that short-term diet interventions in older age may not provide protection against Alzheimer’s disease,” he said. “However, observational studies consistently show that adhering to a healthy diet, such as the DASH or Mediterranean diet, can help protect against cognitive decline over the long term.”
The Importance of Early Dietary Intervention
Erin Palinski-Wade, a New Jersey-based dietitian, emphasized the importance of early adoption of the DASH diet for long-term health and longevity. “Although it is never too late to make dietary changes to improve health, the earlier we start making dietary improvements, the better our health outcomes can be throughout life,” she said. Percy Griffin, PhD, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, also highlighted the significance of addressing modifiable risk factors such as diet throughout one’s life to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Study Limitations
The study had a few limitations, including self-reported cognitive complaints and the exclusion of women who died or did not respond to the questionnaires. However, studies have shown that self-reported complaints can serve as early signs of future cognitive impairment. Chen noted that if the researchers had included women who had a less healthy diet or did not respond, the observed effects would have been even more significant.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects millions of Americans aged 65 and older, with women accounting for the majority of diagnoses. This study adds to the growing body of research suggesting that a heart-healthy diet like the DASH diet may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline later in life. For more health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
