Shafaqna Health: As the global population ages, the number of people affected by dementia is expected to increase from 50 million to 152 million by 2050. While there is no cure for dementia, prevention remains key.
Flavonoids, bioactive compounds in plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, offer health benefits like reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function. A new study suggests that a diet rich in flavonoids could significantly reduce the risk of dementia, particularly for those with genetic predispositions or conditions like high blood pressure or depression.
The study, published in *JAMA Network Open*, analyzed data from nearly 122,000 adults aged 40 to 70 from the UK Biobank. Researchers evaluated participants’ intake of flavonoid-rich foods, such as tea, berries, red wine, apples, oranges, and dark chocolate, and their adherence to a “flavodiet score.” Those who consumed the most flavonoid-rich foods were 28% less likely to develop dementia compared to those with the lowest intake.
This protective effect was even stronger in participants with high genetic risk, hypertension, or depressive symptoms, reducing their dementia risk by 43%, 30%, and 48%, respectively. Tea, red wine, and berries were found to be the most effective, with consuming at least two daily servings offering the greatest benefits.
However, experts caution that while tea and berries are consistently linked to brain health, the role of red wine remains controversial due to its potential health risks, including cancer. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between alcohol and dementia prevention. For now, focusing on nutrient-dense plant foods like tea and berries is advised for reducing dementia risk.