The Mediterranean Diet Helps Fight Dementia

Another reason to eat your fish and veggies... The ever-popular Mediterranean diet may help to alleviate brain atrophy.

Newly published research in the journal Neurology has found that people who follow the diet have a lower risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. ABC News says they also tend to have less brain atrophy than other people. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes:

• Eating primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts
• Replacing butter with healthy fats, such as olive oil
• Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods
• Limiting red meat to no more than a few times a month
• Eating fish and poultry at least twice a week
• Drinking red wine in moderation (optional)

The diet also recognizes the importance of being physically active, and enjoying meals with family and friends.