The Western diet was identifie as a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s. In contrast to the Mediterranean or ketogenic diet, a new study conclude.
This effect would only be significant in mild to moderate cases, the researchers noted in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, citing omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and probiotics as protective factors.
Western diet increases risk of Alzheimer’s, analysis of five years of studies shows
To reach this conclusion, they analysed 38 previous studies from the past five years, determining that nutritional interventions can slow disease progression and improve patients’ cognitive functions, and thus their quality of life.
Diets
As Science Alert explains, the Western diet affects inflammation because it is high in saturated fats, sugar and salts, putting the body under excess stress and possibly making it more vulnerable to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Western diet increases risk of Alzheimer’s, analysis of five years of studies shows
In contrast, the Mediterranean diet is high in whole grains, fruits. Vegetables and seafood, while the ketogenic diet is high in fat but low in carbohydrates. Thus having other associate risks that make it necessary to consult a doctor before undergoing such a diet.
To date, we still do not know what causes Alzheimer’s – which affects more than 50 million people – or how to cure it. So researchers say more research is neede to develop methods to alleviate the disease.
Mild and moderate cases of Alzheimer’s disease may be partially alleviate by dietary management, according to the conclusions. A meta-study that analysed 38 other papers and found patterns between patients’ diets and their risk of developing dementia.
