According to researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA, and the University of Athens, Greece, reported in the journal Neurology (April 30th, 2013 issue), the Mediterranean diet appears to be associated with preserving memory and cognitive abilities.

The researchers explained that diets that are high in omega-3 fatty acids are linked to better memory and cognitive function in humans. The Mediterranean diet has plenty of fish, chicken and salad dressing – all of which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Mediterranean food is rich in omega-3 fatty acids

The authors pointed out, though, that not such benefits were found among people with diabetes.

A University of Western Australia study found people 50 years of age and older with memory loss experienced significant improvements in their memory by walking 150 minutes per week.  Conducted over a period of 18 months, 170 people with memory problems, but not dementia, were split into two groups.  One group continued their daily activities as normal and the second group participated in a home-based activity program, which included three 50 minute walking sessions or other moderate exercise activities per week.