A new study from the Neurology Journal suggests that adopting a high-quality plant-rich diet may reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Researchers found that even people in their late 50s and 60s can benefit from changing their diet.
The research, based on the Multiethnic Cohort Study, analysed over 90,000 participants across diverse populations.
It examined how plant-based diets affect the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Participants who followed healthier plant-based diets showed lower risks of developing dementia.
Researchers linked higher-quality plant diets with measurable reductions in dementia risk.
They found that:
- Healthy plant-based diets reduced risk by up to 12 percent
- Poor-quality plant-based diets increased risk
- Improving diet quality over time lowered risk further
Participants who increased unhealthy plant-based foods faced a 25 percent higher risk.
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Those who reduced unhealthy foods saw an 11 percent lower risk.
The study stressed that not all plant-based diets offer the same benefits.
Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes support brain health more than processed plant foods.
Experts say diet quality plays a critical role in long-term cognitive outcomes.
Researchers observed similar benefits across age groups, ethnic backgrounds, and genetic risk profiles.
This finding suggests that dietary changes can help a wide range of people.
Dementia remains a growing global health challenge, especially with aging populations.
Simple lifestyle changes, including diet, may help reduce long-term risk.
The study highlights the importance of making healthier food choices, even later in life.
