ISLAMABAD, OCT 11 (ONLINE): Researchers are investigating whether a person following the \u201cMedWalk intervention\u201d may be able to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementias, including Alzheimer\u2019s dementia. \u201cMedWalk\u201d is shorthand for a \u201cMediterranean diet\u201d and \u201cwalking.\u201d<\/p>\n
Previous research has linked both a Mediterranean diet and walking to brain health, and this new study hopes to confirm the benefit of at the combined MedWalk intervention.<\/p>\n
The study \u2014 conducted by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom \u2014 is ongoing, having been interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/p>\n
Nevertheless, the authors have published the data on their processes and ongoing analysis in the Journal of Alzheimer\u2019s Disease.<\/p>\n
MedWalk intervention for cognitive health
\nOriginally designed to assess cognition over a 2-year period, timing and the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have necessitated reducing the follow-up period to a single year, and the research is ongoing, with the scientists recruiting a wider sample of participants.
\nThe study authors feel that the modified shape of the study will provide sufficiently strong findings.<\/p>\n
The primary outcome in which the authors of the study are interested is a 12-month change in visual memory and learning for participants.
\nThe researchers are also interested in observing the intervention\u2019s effect on a range of areas, including mood, quality of life, and health costs, as well as cardiovascular health and arterial stiffness.<\/p>\n
The participants in the study are 60-to-90-year-old individuals living in the two Australian states of South Australia and Victoria. Individuals were recruited from independent living retirement communities, and as a result of the pandemic, from the larger community as well.
\nSpecial attention is being paid to biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress.<\/p>\n
Participants were assigned to either a MedWalk intervention group or a control group who maintained their usual diet and activity level.
\nThe intervention is a combination of dietary modification alongside a supervised walking regimen, fortified with psychosocial behavioral change techniques. Participants receive intensive support for the first 6 months, with additional help remaining available for the next 6, to help them stay on track.<\/p>\n
The researchers provide instruction in the ways a Mediterranean diet differs from a typical Australian diet, to help participants understand the concept underlying this way of eating.
\nFor example, the researchers are providing extra-virgin olive oil for free, since it is so key to a Mediterranean diet, as well as other foods.<\/p>\n
After an assessment of baseline aerobic fitness, participants engage in group walking sessions for the first 6 months, followed by monthly sessions for the remainder of the test year.<\/p>\n
The Mediterranean diet and cognition
\nConner Middelmann, certified nutritionist specializing in the Mediterranean diet, not involved in the current study, noted to Medical News Today that studies from 2014Trusted Source and 2023Trusted Source suggested that following a Mediterranean diet was associated with fewer cases of dementia.<\/p>\n
Other studies, such as one in 2015Trusted Source and another one in 2023, found an association between a Mediterranean diet and lower rates of Alzheimer\u2019s disease, the most common form of dementia.
\nHowever, Middelmann cautioned that, \u201c[w]hile these studies suggest a link between the Mediterranean diet and a reduced risk of dementia, it\u2019s important to bear in mind that many factors can influence dementia risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTherefore, maintaining a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to brain health and dementia prevention,\u201d she added.
\nA Mediterranean diet may contribute to brain health in various ways, Middelmann explained:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tthe diet is rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, \u201cwhich are thought to be significant contributors to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases\u201d
\n\u2022\tit contains omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is vital for brain health, and \u201comega-3s [in general] have been linked to improved cognitive function and a lower risk of cognitive decline\u201c
\n\u2022\tthe Mediterranean diet is high in fiber that can help keep the gut microbiome in balance.
\n\u2022\tit is also low in processed grains and sugars, reducing the risk of insulin resistance and inflammation
\n\u2022\tthe consumption of ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to dementia, is not encouraged in the diet.
\nFinally, Middelmann said, sharing meals with family and friends and regular exercise are other aspects of the Mediterranean diet that have been associated with brain health.<\/p>\n
How walking may protect cognition
\nSimilarly, walking regularly is associated with slower cognitive decline.
\nA 2022 studyTrusted Source found a dose-dependent relationship between the number of steps taken and reducing the risk of dementia.
\nThat study found that taking 10,000 steps a day lowered the risk of dementia by 50%<\/p>\n
A 2023 studyTrusted Source of people in the United States and Australia found a link between walking speed and dementia, and a 2017 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine concluded that aerobic exercise such as walking can strengthen cognitive impairment.<\/p>\n
\u201cWalking may improve brain health in one or more ways. Walking may increase brain blood flow, depending on the intensity, duration, and frequency of walking,\u201d explained brain health coach Ryan Glatt from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, not involved in this study.<\/p>\n
In addition, said Glatt, it may \u201cbenefit levels of brain activity, and may reduce feelings of overall stress while improving feelings of well-being.\u201d
\n\u201cWalking may also incorporate social elements and exposure to nature, both of which may also have brain benefits,\u201d said Glatt.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ISLAMABAD, OCT 11 (ONLINE): Researchers are investigating whether a person following the \u201cMedWalk intervention\u201d may be able to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementias, including Alzheimer\u2019s dementia. \u201cMedWalk\u201d is shorthand for a \u201cMediterranean diet\u201d and \u201cwalking.\u201d Previous research has linked both a Mediterranean […]<\/p>\n
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