Many studies have shown the benefits of the Mediterranean diet on heart health. Now, new research from Columba University shows that the Mediterranean diet may be as good for your head as it is for your heart.

The Columbia University researchers studied more than 700 participants over the age of 65 by collecting magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs of the brain and assessing 5 years’ worth of dietary reports in order to evaluate the effect of the Mediterranean diet on cerebrovascular disease, or disease of the blood vessels in the brain. The study participants were divided into 3 groups – low, moderate, and high – depending on their degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The researchers found that, compared to the participants who had low adherence to a Mediterranean diet, those in the moderate group had a 21 percent reduced risk of stroke and those in the high adherence group had a 36 percent reduction in stroke risk.

The Mediterranean diet is high in fish, grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Although it is not clear why the Mediterranean diet seems to reduce the risk of stroke, it may be that some component of the diet somehow protects blood vessels by reducing plaque formation and clotting. Taken together with previous research showing that the Mediterranean diet is heart-healthy and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, this new study continues to support the benefits of eating a diet that restricts red meat, dairy products, and processed foods.

Source:

American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, released online February 8, 2010.