In March 2019 researchers from Northern Ireland and the USA published the results of their study to assess whether the Mediterranean diet, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and a diet quality score during adulthood are associated with cognitive performance in middle age. A total of 2,621 individuals (average age 25 years; 57% female) were included in the study. Average dietary scores were estimated from diet history which was collected at the start of the study and again when the individuals were aged approximately 32 years and 45 years. Cognitive function was assessed when the individuals were approximately 50 and 55 years. Results showed that a greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet and a higher diet quality score appeared to be associated with a reduced decline in cognitive function. However, the DASH diet did not appear to be associated with a change in cognitive performance.
McEvoy CT et al. Dietary patterns during adulthood and cognitive performance in midlife: The CARDIA study. Neurology. 2019 Mar 6. [Epub ahead of print]