Tamara Thomas

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<p>A growing body of research suggests that following the MIND diet—an eating pattern combining features of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—can help support healthy brain function and potentially slow the onset of cognitive decline. Two recent studies indicate that these benefits may be especially pronounced among Black Americans and women, highlighting a significant opportunity to address racial disparities in cognitive health outcomes.</p>
<p>The MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) emphasizes plant-based foods such as leafy greens, berries, legumes, and whole grains, while limiting red meat, butter, and sweets. In a large cohort study of more than 14,000 participants published in <em><a class="enhancr_card_9085583078" href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209817">Neurology</a></em></p>
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<p>Researchers found that those who adhered most closely to the MIND diet had a 4% lower risk of cognitive decline over time. Moreover, these protective effects appeared stronger in female and Black participants. The study also underscored that even modest improvements in diet—such as eating more berries or leafy greens—may yield meaningful benefits.</p>
<p>A similar study using data from the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) cohort further explored these racial implications. The investigators discovered that MIND diet adherence predicted lower risk of cognitive impairment for both Black and White participants, but it was a “better predictor” of cognitive trajectory in Black participants. These findings hold particular importance given that Black Americans face a disproportionately higher burden of conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes, which can contribute to poorer brain health.</p>
<div>While more research is needed to understand the biological mechanisms and to confirm if other factors—such as social determinants of health—also influence these outcomes, these studies offer promising evidence that a MIND-style eating pattern may serve as a practical tool for supporting cognitive wellness. Especially for communities facing higher risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, adopting the MIND diet may be a valuable step toward healthier aging and reducing disparities in brain health.</div>
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<div dir="ltr" data-setdir="false">Source: <a href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209817">Neurology</a></div>
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<div dir="ltr" data-setdir="false">Source: <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/mind-diet-may-slow-cognitive-decline">Harvard Health Publishing</a></div>


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Two recent studies indicate that these benefits may be especially pronounced among Black Americans and women

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