A long-term study has found that following a Mediterranean-style diet may help reduce the risk of dementia, even for people with a strong genetic predisposition. Researchers identified the APOE4 gene variant as a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. Having one copy of APOE4 can triple the risk, while two copies can increase it up to twelvefold.
Diet as a Protective Factor
The study, published in Nature Medicine, tracked more than 5,700 participants over three decades, analyzing their diets, genetic profiles, and cognitive performance. Results showed that those who regularly consumed a Mediterranean-style diet — rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and low in red and processed meats — experienced slower cognitive decline and were less likely to develop dementia. The protective effects were most pronounced in individuals carrying two APOE4 variants.
Researchers suggested that such a diet may influence key metabolic pathways linked to brain health. While the findings are limited by the relatively homogenous participant pool, they highlight the potential of dietary strategies to counter genetic risks and promote healthy aging.
