In a related article, researchers found while adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet is linked to lower risk for mortality and chronic diseases, its association with cognitive decline has been unclear.

Catherine F?art, Ph.D., of the Universit? Victor S?galen Bordeaux 2, Bordeaux, France, and colleagues examined whether adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with change in cognitive performance and with lower risk of dementia or Alzheimer disease. The study included 1,410 individuals age 65 years or older from Bordeaux. Participants were re-examined at least once over 5 years. The authors were quoted as saying that a Mediterranean-type diet "might also have protective effects against cognitive decline in older individuals, because it combines several foods and nutrients potentially protective against cognitive dysfunction or dementia, such as fish, monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamins B12 and folate, antioxidants (vitamin E, carotenoids, flavonoids), and moderate amounts of alcohol."

"The Mediterranean diet pattern probably does not fully explain the better health of persons who adhere to it, but it may contribute directly. A Mediterranean diet also may indirectly constitute an indicator of a complex set of favorable social and lifestyle factors that contribute to better health. Further research is needed to allow the generalization of these results to other populations and to establish whether a Mediterranean diet slows cognitive decline or reduces incident dementia in addition to its cardiovascular benefits," the authors conclude.

In an accompanying editorial, David S. Knopman, M.D., of Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., commented on the two studies. "The findings . . . fit into a larger and potentially optimistic view of prevention of late-life cognitive impairment through application, at least by midlife, of as many healthy behaviors as possible, including diet. Based on these two studies, diet may play a supporting role, but following a healthy diet does not occur in isolation."

SOURCE:  Journal of the American Medical Association ( JAMA), August 12, 2009

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