Dietary Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease: Insights from Multicountry Studies

Summary: Diets Higher in Meat Linked to Increased Alzheimer’s Disease Risk

The author reviewed many studies on diet patterns and Alzheimer’s disease risk. He also did a new study looking at Alzheimer’s rates in 10 countries alongside their dietary trends.

Main findings:

- As countries adopt more Western-style diets high in meat, Alzheimer’s rates increase

- Diets high in fruits, vegetables, grains and fish are associated with lower Alzheimer's risk

- Meat consumption seems the strongest dietary link with greater Alzheimer’s risk

- Proposed reasons include oxidative stress, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies

In summary, transitioning to diets higher in meat appears associated with rising Alzheimer’s disease rates. Limiting meat while increasing plant foods and fish may reduce risk. Further research is warranted. But results support promoting diets lower in meat to protect brain health.

Grant WB. Using Multicountry Ecological and Observational Studies to Determine Dietary Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease. J Am Coll Nutr. 2016 Jul;35(5):476-89. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2016.1161566. PMID: 27454859.