A new study suggests that following the MIND diet may reduce dementia risk by as much as 25%. The MIND diet combines elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, emphasizing brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, and olive oil.
Dementia is a growing concern, with over 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. However, research suggests that lifestyle factors, including diet, may play a significant role in reducing the risk. The MIND diet has been shown to be more strongly associated with lower dementia risk than other healthy diets.
In a study presented at Nutrition 2025, participants who adhered to the MIND diet had a 9% lower risk of developing dementia. This benefit was even greater among African American, Latino, and white participants, with an 13% reduction in risk. Notably, improvements in brain health were seen even among those who began following the diet later in life.
The study’s findings suggest that making sustainable changes to your diet can have a positive impact on brain health, regardless of age or starting point. Small tweaks, such as adding a side salad to dinner or swapping butter for olive oil, can make a difference. This research offers an empowering message: the food you eat may play a role in protecting your brain.
While more research is needed to confirm these findings, the MIND diet remains a promising strategy for protecting cognitive health across the lifespan.
Source: https://www.eatingwell.com/mind-diet-dementia-study-11748383