Can a Magnesium-Rich Diet Reduce the Risk of Dementia?
A study by the Neuroimaging and Brain Lab at The Australian National University (ANU) suggests that including more magnesium in one’s daily diet can enhance brain health and potentially decrease the likelihood of dementia. The study, which involved more than 6,000 cognitively healthy participants aged 40 to 73 in the United Kingdom, found that consuming more than 550 milligrams of magnesium per day resulted in a brain age approximately one year younger by 55 compared to those with a normal intake of 350 milligrams.
“Our study shows a 41% increase in magnesium intake could lead to less age-related brain shrinkage, which is associated with better cognitive function and lower risk or delayed onset of dementia in later life,” lead author and PhD researcher Khawlah Alateeq, from ANU National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, said.
Dementia is the seventh biggest killer worldwide and the second leading cause of death in Australia. It is also the leading cause of disease burden in Australians aged 65. With no cure for dementia and the number of people diagnosed with it expected to more than double from 57.4 million in 2019 to 152.8 million in 2050, it is crucial to focus on preventative measures such as a diet rich in magnesium.
Excerpted from Hello Care
