Strict adherence to a high fruit and vegetable diet may help hinder the development of cognitive impairment in older men.
This study examined whether greater intake of a variety of fruits and vegetables is tied to reduced risk of cognitive impairment in the elderly. With the aid of validated food frequency questionnaires, researchers collected and evaluated information on the rate of consumption of fruits and vegetables among 1,518 Chinese men and women with an average age of 70 years. The cognitive function of all the participants was assessed throughout the duration of the study.
Researchers found a low incidence of cognitive impairment in participants, especially among men, who ate different types of fruits and vegetables. This study highlighted the important role a high fruit and vegetable diet play in curbing the onset of cognitive impairment in older men.