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Elderly individuals who consume a healthy
diet may be less likely
to suffer symptoms of dementia as they age.
The findings have implications for millions
of people in the developing world who are living longer than
ever, as they point to a modifiable risk factor for impaired
mental functioning.
The study included more than 1,600 individuals
aged 70 and older, who filled out a food questionnaire and
took a test to measure mental function. Researchers then calculated
nutrient intake and ranked individuals as having normal mental
function or mild, moderate or severe deficits.
Overall,
nearly one third of men and almost half of the women in the
study had some type of mental deficit.
Studies have also shown that omega-3 fatty
acids found in certain types of fish may also protect against
cognitive deterioration.
European Journal
of Clinical Nutrition December 2001;55:1053-1058
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