New York: Mackenzie Phan of Syosset High School and Her Insights

My name is Mackenzie Phan and I am 16 years old. I am from New York and I am interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, particularly pediatrics. In my free time, I like to read, play volleyball, and go on long runs with my friends.

Reviewed Article: MIND Diet Associated with Reduced Incidence of Alzheimer’s Disease by Martha Clare Morris et al.

Main Argument & Findings:

This article aimed to compare the effects of three diets -Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and a hybrid - on the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Researchers revealed that when the hybrid diet, called the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet, was strictly adhered to, the reduction rate of AD was increased by 53%. When it was modestly adhered to, the reduction rate increased by 36%. Comparatively, only a high compliance to the mediterranean diet and the DASH diet produced results that indicated AD prevention. This implies that a MIND diet would be more effective in decreasing cognitive decline. Furthermore, this article broadened my understanding of AD and eating habits by highlighting the effects of specific diets on the progression of AD. It contradicted my belief that by eating a greater quantity of healthy foods, additional benefits will be reaped. The data demonstrated that following a MIND diet, which consists of less fish and fruits, was more beneficial to preventing cognitive impairment than DASH and mediterranean diets, which held a greater emphasis the same foods.

Importance for Youth:

Acknowledging the importance of a person's diet on cognitive abilities is crucial to preventing decline. By understanding what foods can help slow the progression and decrease the risk of AD, children will be better equipped to make healthy lifestyle decisions that will hopefully improve their quality of life.

What I Learned: 

I learned that using the MIND diet, which emphasises the consumption of leafy green vegetables, beans, and nuts versus fish and berries, will decelerate the progression of AD. Even when this diet is moderately adhered to, the positive effects of this diet on AD are evident. Using this knowledge, I can incorporate more foods from the MIND diet to prevent future cognitive issues.

Citations: Morris MC, Tangney CC, Wang Y, Sacks FM, Bennett DA, Aggarwal NT. MIND diet associated with reduced incidence of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement. 2015 Sep;11(9):1007-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jalz.2014.11.009. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PMID: 25681666; PMCID: PMC4532650.

IG: @kenzi.amp