New research has revealed a strong connection between diet and brain health.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Warwick and Fudan University, found that a healthy and balanced diet is not only beneficial for physical health but also plays a critical role in maintaining superior brain health, cognitive function, and mental well-being.
To investigate this link, the researchers analysed the dietary preferences of a large group of participants (1,81,990 people) from the UK Biobank.
They assessed various aspects of health, including cognitive function, blood markers, brain imaging, and genetics. The findings offer new insights into how food choices impact overall wellbeing.
Participants’ food preferences were collected through an online survey and categorised into 10 groups, such as alcohol, fruits, and meats. Using machine learning technology, the researchers processed this extensive dataset to identify patterns and associations.
The study, published in Nature Mental Health, showed that people with a balanced diet tended to have better mental health, superior cognitive function, and increased grey matter in the brain, an indicator of intelligence, compared to those with less varied diets.
The researchers also emphasised the importance of making gradual dietary changes, especially for people accustomed to highly processed and unhealthy foods.
By slowly reducing sugar and fat intake over time, people may naturally shift towards healthier eating habits.
Genetic factors were also found to influence the relationship between diet and brain health, highlighting the interplay between genetics and lifestyle choices in shaping overall wellbeing.
Lead author Professor Jianfeng Feng highlighted the significance of establishing healthy eating habits early in life to support healthy growth and development.
He stressed the role of families and schools in offering diverse and nutritious meals to promote physical and mental health.
In terms of broader implications, Professor Feng stressed the need for public policies that promote affordable and accessible healthy food options.
Socioeconomic factors should not hinder people from adopting a healthy diet, and governmental interventions are crucial to empower individuals to make informed dietary choices.
“This study supports the need for urgent government action to optimise health in our children, protecting future generations. We also hope this provides further evidence to motivate us all to make better lifestyle choices, to improve our health and reduce the risk of developing chronic disease,” said Dr Richard Pemberton, a certified lifestyle physician, who was not involved in the study.
