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Correlation between Vegetable and Fruit Intake and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chongqing, China

Summary

This study examined how eating different types of fruits and vegetables affects brain health in older adults in Chongqing, China. Researchers found that higher fruit intake and eating more root vegetables (like carrots and turnips) were associated with better cognitive function and lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. Some vegetables like tomatoes and peppers also showed protective benefits, while leafy greens did not show a significant effect. The findings suggest that encouraging older adults to eat more fruits and certain vegetables could help prevent memory problems and cognitive decline.

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional state between normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Previous research suggests that healthy eating habits, particularly fruit and vegetable consumption, may help prevent or delay cognitive decline in older adults. However, limited research exists on the relationship between specific types and quantities of fruit and vegetable intake and cognitive function in Chinese older adults.

Objective

To explore the correlation between different types of vegetable and fruit intake and cognitive function in older adults in Chongqing, China, and to provide evidence for developing lifestyle interventions to prevent mild cognitive impairment.

Results

36.4% of participants had MCI. After adjusting for confounders, fruit intake and root vegetable intake showed protective effects against MCI with dose-response relationships. Medium intake of solanaceous vegetables and medium-high intake of fungi and algae were also protective against MCI. Lower total vegetable intake and leafy green vegetables showed no significant association with MCI. Older age, female sex, unmarried status, lower income, and physical labor were risk factors for cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Fruit and root vegetable intake, along with certain other vegetable types, showed protective effects against MCI. A sensible, healthy diet may help prevent cognitive impairment in older adults. Different demographic groups may benefit differently from specific dietary patterns.
  • Published in:Nutrients,
  • Study Type:Cross-Sectional Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/nu16183193; PMID: 39339793
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