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Researchers at Tulane University School of Medicine have found that mice following a Mediterranean diet displayed distinct bacterial patterns compared to those on a Western diet, leading to significant improvements in cognitive performance. The study, published in Gut Microbes Reports, showed that the Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and olive oil enhanced memory and brain function by altering the gut microbiome composition. In contrast, mice on the Western diet exhibited memory deficits, which were linked to cognitive decline.
Dr. Rebecca Solch Otayano, the lead researcher, emphasized how dietary choices can directly impact brain functions by modifying gut bacteria. The Mediterranean diet is widely regarded as one of the healthiest in the world, celebrated for its ability to improve overall health and reduce the risks of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, as well as its association with a lower risk of dementia and certain cancers.
The researchers hope to expand this study to humans, as evidence suggests the benefits of this diet may also enhance mental performance in young adults and teenagers.