Preserving Brain Health: Mediterranean Diet along with Regular Exercise could provide Protection
Laying It Down: The MedWalk Craze
Science geeks, listen up! There's a study brewing that's set to redefine the game for brain health enthusiasts. Researchers worldwide are investigating the magical symphony of a Mediterranean diet and regular walking, aptly coined "MedWalk," and its potential to kick dementia and cognitive decline to the curb.
It's been no secret that both the Med Diet and walking consistently have been linked to brain health. This study, however, aims to take things up a notch, examining the double whammy effect of these two powerful weapons against mental decline.
The MedWalk intervention, masterfully concocted by researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, got underway, but like all good things, it was momentarily paused by the wrath of COVID-19. Despite the hurdles, the incredible team decided to push forward, adapting their strategy to ensure that the findings remain as powerful as ever.
"Visual memory and learning" stands out as the primary area of interest for researchers, but they're also keen to observe the impact of MedWalk on mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, arterial stiffness, and various biomarkers linked to cognitive decline, such as glucose regulation, inflammation, nutrients, and oxidative stress.
The study has assembled an eclectic crew of 60-90-year-old participants, scooped up from independent living retirement homes in South Australia and Victoria. The pandemic shed new light on recruitment, allowing the researchers to broaden their search to include participants from the larger community as well.
The intrepid testers were divided into two groups – those embarking on the MedWalk journey and a control group practicing their usual diet and activity routine. The MedWalk intervention combines dietary modifications, a polite nudge in the form of a guided walking regimen, and some psychosocial behavioral change techniques, offering intensive support during the first six months and access to assistance during the next six months for good measure.
The researchers offer guidance on everything Med Diet, from the differences between typical Australian cuisine and the Mediterranean way of eating to providing extra-virgin olive oil (the unsung hero of this food trend). Following a thorough baseline assessment of aerobic fitness, participants engage in group walking events for the first six months, with monthly meetings carrying them through the remainder of this life-changing year.
If you're still on the fence about the Med Diet's ability to safeguard brain health, fear not! Masters of nutrition like the certified nutritionist, Conner Middelmann, have got your back. Research suggests that adhering to a Mediterranean diet is linked to fewer instances of dementia, lower rates of Alzheimer's, and improved cognitive function. But remember, according to Middelmann, it's all about the overall health package, incorporating balanced eating, exercise, and a positive lifestyle.
Moving on to walking, this low-cost, high-reward activity has also been shown to slow down cognitive decline. Research indicates that racking up 10,000 steps a day could slash dementia risk by a whopping 50%, while keeping busy legs could strengthen cognitive impairment and boost brain health. Don't forget the added bonus of enhanced mood, reduced stress, and those lovely social and nature elements!
The data-collecting phase of the MedWalk study is set to wrap up by the end of 2023. So stay tuned, brainiacs – the future of cognitive health might just lie in your hands (and feet). Embrace the MedWalk lifestyle, and let's storm the fortresses of dementia together!
- The MedWalk study, examining the combination of a Mediterranean diet and regular walking, could potentially revolutionize brain health research.
- The researchers are keen to observe the impact of MedWalk on various aspects of cognitive health, including visual memory and learning, mood, quality of life, health costs, cardiovascular health, arterial stiffness, and biomarkers linked to cognitive decline.
- The study participants, aged 60-90, have been divided into two groups: one embarking on the MedWalk journey and a control group following their usual diet and activity routine.
- The MedWalk intervention incorporates dietary modifications, a walking regimen, and psychosocial behavioral change techniques, offering intensive support during the first six months and continued access to assistance for the following six months.
- Nutrition experts, like certified nutritionist Conner Middelmann, endorse the Mediterranean diet as a means to reduce the risk of dementia, Alzheimer's, and improve cognitive function – emphasizing a holistic approach that includes balanced eating, exercise, and a positive lifestyle.
- Walking regularly, shown to slow cognitive decline, may offer a significant reduction in dementia risk, up to 50%, while also yielding benefits such as enhanced mood, reduced stress, and social and nature-related rewards.
