Recent studies have identified several diseases that could increase the risk of dementia, which is thought to be caused by a combination of various factors. In the case of multi-factorial diseases, there is a higher chance of getting dementia.
Typical examples are hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia, which were previously said to be associated with cerebrovascular dementia because of the increased risk of stroke. However, they are also greatly related to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s dementia.
Data also shows that people with diabetes have a 2.1 times higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia than those who do not. Moreover, those with hypertension are 2.4 to 10.1 times likely to develop cerebral vascular dementia.
All of the risk factors have a strong influence on middle-aged lifestyle, so a balanced diet, moderate exercise and adequate sleep is needed, including the reduction of alcohol or cigarette consumption.
According to a research team at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, a diet called “mind diet” was effective in 2015 to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia. In a 5-year follow-up of 1,000 men and women, the study reported that those who practiced “mind diet” reduced their risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia by 53% compared to those who did not.
Mind diet is a combination of “Mediterranean diet” which helps to prevent heart disease and “dash diet” which is said to reduce cholesterol and prevent hypertension.

“Mind food”
Ingredients that you want to actively consume:
Green and yellow vegetables, root vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains (whole wheat flour and brown rice), olive oil, fish with high DHA and EPA, chicken, berries and wine.

Ingredients that you should refrain from:
Red meat, butter, margarine, cheese, sweets and fast food.