Nutritional Interventions for Dementia Prevention: A Brief Perspective

Abstract

Dementia is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline, often associated with metabolic and nutritional dysregulation. Evidence highlights the influence of nutritional factors on cognitive health, offering avenues for prevention and management. Epidemiological studies link Mediterranean and DASH diets with reduced cognitive decline risk, due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin B₁₂, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids have been implicated in elevated homocysteine levels and neuroinflammation, contributing to dementia pathogenesis. Ketones represent a promising alternative brain energy source, potentially mitigating cognitive deficits. Short-chain fatty acids modulate inflammation, while proteins and amino acids are integral to neurotransmitter synthesis, influencing cognition. Supplementation trials show mixed results, but omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants demonstrate potential benefits in specific subpopulations. Nutrition plays a role in attenuating neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance, while promoting neuroplasticity and synaptic integrity. Importantly, systemic factors contributing to dementia risk, such as lifestyle-related diseases and metabolic disorders, vary among individuals. Recent advancements in personalized nutritional therapy using artificial intelligence, such as the AICOG (AI Cognitive Outcome Generator) system, analyze health check-up data to identify individual dementia risks and provide tailored nutritional guidance. This innovative approach combines general dietary strategies like the MIND diet with customized interventions based on individual systemic factors, potentially offering superior efficacy in dementia prevention. Future research should emphasize longitudinal studies and personalized nutrition approaches, accounting for genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes evidence on dietary patterns, nutrient deficiencies, and supplementation strategies in relation to dementia risk and progression.