A new study from China suggests that malnutrition may drive the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, and the disease’s progression may, in turn, exacerbate malnutrition. By better addressing individuals’ nutritional needs, the hope is to reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The study explored the potential connections between Alzheimer’s disease and malnutrition, finding that early identification and dietary interventions for individuals at nutritional risk or who are malnourished could potentially reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
The study looked into two specific diets, the Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet, to assess their impact on individuals’ cognitive health. It examined the relationship between nutrition and Alzheimer’s disease, noting that as the disease progresses, individuals often experience worsening malnutrition, making it increasingly difficult to maintain adequate nutrition levels. The research highlighted the importance of interventions focused on promoting proper nutrition to help in the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Lancet Commission’s 2020 report indicated a decline in the rate of new cases of age-related dementia in many countries, attributing this trend to improvements in nutrition, education, healthcare, and lifestyle choices. The report identified 12 modifiable risk factors that account for a significant portion of dementia cases globally, including factors like less education, hypertension, smoking, obesity, and depression. The recognition of these modifiable factors presents a potential opportunity for preventive measures to mitigate Alzheimer’s disease risk.
Previous studies have suggested that changes in body mass index (BMI) and nutritional status can be early indicators of cognitive decline, particularly in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The new observational study conducted in China involved 266 participants, with findings indicating that lower BMI values, reduced body measurements, and certain blood biomarkers were associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The study emphasized the importance of nutritional assessments and interventions in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease to mitigate malnutrition risks.
The Mediterranean and MIND diets were analyzed in the study, showcasing their potential benefits for cardiovascular health, weight management, and cognitive health. Both diets emphasize the consumption of plant-based foods, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of fish while limiting processed foods and red meat. The MIND diet, in particular, focuses on supporting cognitive health by promoting the intake of specific foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease are at a higher risk of malnutrition due to various challenges such as difficulties with eating, altered taste perception, and behavioral symptoms that affect food intake. Social factors, such as dependence on others for nutrition and communication challenges related to hunger cues, further contribute to the risk of malnutrition in Alzheimer’s patients. Consulting a registered dietitian nutritionist to create a well-balanced dietary plan tailored to each individual’s needs is recommended to address potential muscle loss and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease progression.
