Common Diet Linked to Faster Brain Decline in Alzheimer’s Risk Group

Individuals with the most common genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease may experience a faster decline in attention when consuming a Western-style diet, according to findings from a recent study. Independent expert Caghan Kizil, PhD, MSc, professor of neurological sciences in Columbia University’s Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, said the findings are noteworthy but should be viewed cautiously.

Researchers followed 185 older adults without dementia, tracked their dietary habits over time, and measured changes in cognitive performance. Dr. Kizil pointed out that the study didn’t directly measure Alzheimer’s disease or dementia risk, and that it excluded participants who already had cognitive problems. “These findings give researchers a lead, not families a prescription,” Dr. Kizil said. [read more]

Source: Newsweek