Break out the crackers and wine glasses and put the lamb on the barbie!
An Iowa State University study has revealed cheese and wine can help to combat cognitive decline later in life.
The study, by the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, analysed data from 1,787 adults between 46 and 77 years old after they took part in Fluid Intelligence Tests across several years.
The touchscreen tests were designed to formulate a snapshot of an individual’s ability to ‘think on the fly’.
Participants also completed a Food Frequency Questionnaire which asked people about their diet, including their intake of fruit, vegetables, salad and a range of cheeses and wine.
The major findings revealed cheese was by far the most protective food against cognitive decline as people age, as was the daily consumption of wine – especially red wine (great news!)
Daily consumption of lamb – but not other red meats – was also found to improve long-term cognitive ability.
Principal investigator Auriel Willette said the study could impact on the rate of cognitive decline going forward.
“Perhaps the silver bullet we’re looking for is upgrading how we eat,” Miss Willette said.
“Knowing what that entails contributes to a better understanding of Alzheimer’s and putting this disease in a reverse trajectory.”
Either way, it’s good to know what we eat can have a positive effect on how we age.
Cheers!
