Journal Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia : the Journal of the Alzheimer's Association Year : 2015

Mediterranean diet and preserved brain structural connectivity in older subjects

Catherine Helmer
Charlotte Bernard
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Abstract

Introduction: The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) has been related to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease; yet, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We hypothesized that protection against neurodegeneration would translate into higher gray matter volumes, whereas a specific association with preserved white matter microstructure would suggest alternative mechanisms (e.g., vascular pathways). Methods: We included 146 participants from the Bordeaux Three-City study nondemented when they completed a dietary questionnaire and who underwent a 3-T magnetic resonance imaging at an average of 9 years later, including diffusion tensor imaging. Results: In multivariate voxel-by-voxel analyses, adherence to the MeDi was significantly associated with preserved white matter microstructure in extensive areas, a gain in structural connectivity that was related to strong cognitive benefits. In contrast, we found no relation with gray matter volumes. Discussion: The MeDi appears to benefit brain health through preservation of structural connectivity. Potential mediation by a favorable impact on brain vasculature deserves further research. (C) 2015 The Alzheimer's Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dates and versions

hal-03555618 , version 1 (03-02-2022)

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Amandine Pelletier, Christine Barul, Catherine Feart, Catherine Helmer, Charlotte Bernard, et al.. Mediterranean diet and preserved brain structural connectivity in older subjects. Alzheimer's & Dementia : the Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, 2015, 11 (9), pp.1023-1031. ⟨10.1016/j.jalz.2015.06.1888⟩. ⟨hal-03555618⟩
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