A new study reveals that the Mediterranean diet may boost memory and cognitive function. This diet emphasizes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, and olive oil while limiting red meat and sugar consumption.
Researchers from Tulane University published their findings in the international journal Gut Microbes.
The team divided 10-week-old rats into two groups: one fed a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, fish, and fiber, and the other a Western diet high in saturated fats. They then analyzed changes in gut microbiota, memory, and cognitive abilities.
Results showed that rats on the Mediterranean diet had increased beneficial gut bacteria and decreased levels of five other bacterial strains. These gut microbiome changes positively affected the rats’ performance in maze tests, enhancing their memory and learning abilities.
Rats on the Mediterranean diet showed improved cognitive flexibility and working memory when processing new information. They also had lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, often called “bad” cholesterol.
Dr. Demetrius M. Maraganore from Tulane University commented, “While these findings are based on animal models, they echo human studies linking the Mediterranean diet to improved memory and reduced dementia risk. Our findings suggest that the Mediterranean diet or its biological effects could be harnessed to improve scholastic performance in adolescents or work performance in young adults.”
Other studies support the Mediterranean diet’s benefits. Columbia University research found that people following this diet have a 68% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
A University of Sydney study revealed that women who strictly adhered to a Mediterranean diet had a 24% lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those who didn’t.
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