A healthy plant-based diet was associated with slower cognitive decline in African American older adults: a biracial community-based cohort

Consistent consumption of healthful plant foods may reduce the rate of cognitive and memory decline in African Americans.

This study assessed the influence of dietary choices on cognitive function and memory in older adults. Researchers charted dietary patterns against the occurrence of cognitive, perceptual speed, and episodic memory decline in a study population comprising of 3,337 Whites and African Americans residing in Chicago, USA.

Researchers noted that habitual intake of healthy plant foods slowed the onset of cognitive, episodic memory, and perceptual speed decline among African Americans, but not in Caucasians. The results of this study showed that sticking to a healthful plant-centric diet may have positive effects on cognitive function and memory in African Americans.