Healthy brain ageing and cognition: Nutritional factors

Abstract

Nutritional factors can influence the risk of Alzheimer's disease and its rate of clinical progression, suggesting that the association between diet, nutrient status and cognitive function deserves more attention. The European Union Geriatric Medicine Society (EUGMS) working group “Healthy Brain Ageing and Cognition” supports the development of practical recommendations for nutritional strategy, focused predominantly on the preventive aspects of diet and nutrition on cognitive decline. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and avoiding nutritional deficiencies in young or midlife adults is essential and there is compelling evidence to justify recommending a Mediterranean diet as a way of achieving these goals. There is currently insufficient evidence to endorse the use of specific nutrients to promote healthy brain ageing. In addition, currently there is no generally applicable evidence to recommend the use of single-agent micronutrient supplementation at any stage of dementia or for prevention. Omega-3 fatty acids or specific medical foods may be considered for selected patients with early dementia. When signs of malnutrition are detected, correction of specific deficiencies is necessary to improve nutritional status. Individuals at risk of malnutrition should be advised to improve nutritional intake from dietary food sources and should avoid taking high doses of specific nutrients as supplements. Nutritional awareness, advice and intervention are important in the general management and follow-up of people with cognitive problems.