Dietary intake associated with cognitive function of elderly Koreans

Abstract

Cognitive impairment of the elderly is modulated by nutrients (Vitamin B6, B12, folate and omega‐3), diet (Mediterranean) and nutritional supplement use. We aim to investigate the cognitive function of elderly Koreans in relation to their dietary practices. Elderly Koreans (n=316, 115 men and 201 women), aged ≥65y, were interviewed individually for sociodemographic characteristics, height, weight, FFQ, 24‐hour recalls, and a mini‐mental state examination evaluated by use of a 30‐point questionnaire in Korean (KMMSE). Frequency, Chi‐Square, and Anova tests were carried out using SPSS 12.0. Obesity was more prevalent in men (33%) and those living with spouse and children than women and those living alone. The mean KMMSE scores (± SD) were higher in men (27.55±3.37 vs. 25.53±4.88 in women), the educated, and the relatively younger group (27.77± 2.42 in <70 y vs. 22.67±5.24) in ≥90y) than in their counterparts. Although responses differ by gender, differences in KMMSE scores were associated with frequent consumption of bread, potato, fish, fish cake, pork, beef, radish, tomato, tangerine, apples, grapes, ice cream and rice wine. Intake of vegetables particularly hot peppers, cumbers, tomatoes and seaweed was closely associated with KMMSE scores in Korean elderly.Grant Funding Source: Globalization of Korean Foods Project by Korea Institute of Planning & Evaluation for Technology in Food, Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (IPET)