The Best Age to Start Eating for Brain Health and Dementia Prevention

A new study reveals a critical window in life when adopting healthy eating habits could significantly support brain function and reduce the risk of dementia.

Researchers from the University of Oxford found that maintaining a balanced diet between the ages of 48 and 70 may enhance the activity of brain regions that typically begin to decline before dementia symptoms appear. Their findings show that a diet rich in fish, legumes, and vegetables — while limiting high-sugar foods — can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by up to 25%.

In addition, the study noted that individuals with less abdominal fat during these years tend to perform better in memory and cognitive flexibility as they age. “The global shift in eating habits has contributed to a rise in chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity, which are known risk factors for dementia,” the researchers wrote in their article published in JAMA Network Open.

The team emphasizes the importance of adopting healthier eating patterns specifically during the sixth and seventh decades of life, describing it as a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on brain health. “Small changes in your daily menu can make a big difference in preventing cognitive decline,” they concluded.

If you’re in this age range, it might be the perfect time to take a closer look at what’s on your plate.