MIND Diet May Slow Brain Aging, MRI Study Finds
A 12-year Framingham Heart Study Offspring analysis found higher adherence to the MIND diet—rich in leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and moderate wine—was associated with slower brain aging on MRI, including reduced gray matter loss and less ventricular expansion. Each 3-point rise in MIND score correlated with about 0.279 cm³/year slower gray matter loss (roughly 20% less aging and ~2.5 years) and −0.071 cm³/year slower ventricular expansion (about 1 year). Benefits were strongest for berries and poultry; sweets and fried foods linked to worse changes. The study is observational, with recall bias and a predominantly White cohort limiting causal claims, but supports the brain-health potential of the MIND diet as part of a healthy lifestyle.
