The transformative impact of the mediterranean diet and physical activity on Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that affects millions of people worldwide, being responsible for most cases of dementia. This disease, characterized by progressive cognitive decline, significantly impacts the quality of life of patients and their families. Amid the search for effective treatments, non-pharmacological interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet and physical activity, emerge as promising approaches for the prevention and management of Alzheimer's.

Mediterranean Diet: Nutrition for Brain Health: The Mediterranean diet, which originates from countries such as Greece, Italy, and Spain, is recognized for its balanced dietary pattern, consisting of foods rich in neuroprotective nutrients. Among its main components are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, nuts, and red wine in moderation. These foods provide antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and polyphenols, which are essential for fighting oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

Scientific research shows that adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. individuals who strictly follow this dietary pattern are 40% less likely to develop dementia compared to those who consume Western diets, rich in saturated fats and refined sugars

The antioxidant role of the diet is critical for brain health, as it reduces damage caused by free radicals. Omega-3 fatty acids, present in fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, are known to promote synaptic plasticity and communication between neurons. In addition, olive oil, rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, helps protect nerve cells against inflammatory processes that contribute to the progression of AD.

Physical Activity: Movement and Neuroprotection: Regular physical exercise is an equally effective intervention in combating brain degeneration. Exercise, especially aerobics, promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a region responsible for memory and learning, showed that regular exercise increases hippocampal volume in older adults, slowing cognitive decline.

Longitudinal studies, such as the one indicate that physical activity improves executive functions, memory, and attention in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. In addition, exercise reduces metabolic risk factors, such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, which are directly associated with the progression of AD. Point out that up to a third of Alzheimer's cases could be avoided through interventions aimed at reducing these factors.