A.P., C.Ba., C. Be., O.P., B.D., M.A., G.C., and C.S. report no conflicts of interest. C.F. received fees for conferences from Danone Research and Nutricia. C.H. reports fees for conference from Novartis. J.-F.D. reports research grant from Ipsen Novartis. P.B.-G. reports grants and nonfinancial support from Danone Research, Vifor Pharma, and Groupe Lipides et Nutrition; personal fees and nonfinancial support from Nutricia, ILSI Europe, and PiLeJe; and a grant from Centre National Interprofessionnel de l'Industrie Laitière (CNIEL).

The study sponsors funded the preparation and initiation of the 3C study and the data collection. They did not interfere in analysis and interpretation of the data, in writing the report, and in the decision to submit the article from publication.

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Abstract

Introduction

The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) has been related to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease; yet, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We hypothesized that protection against neurodegeneration would translate into higher gray matter volumes, whereas a specific association with preserved white matter microstructure would suggest alternative mechanisms (e.g., vascular pathways).

Methods

We included 146 participants from the Bordeaux Three-City study nondemented when they completed a dietary questionnaire and who underwent a 3-T magnetic resonance imaging at an average of 9 years later, including diffusion tensor imaging.

Results

In multivariate voxel-by-voxel analyses, adherence to the MeDi was significantly associated with preserved white matter microstructure in extensive areas, a gain in structural connectivity that was related to strong cognitive benefits. In contrast, we found no relation with gray matter volumes.

Discussion

The MeDi appears to benefit brain health through preservation of structural connectivity. Potential mediation by a favorable impact on brain vasculature deserves further research.

Supporting Information

References

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Volume11, Issue9

September 2015

Pages 1023-1031

Mediterranean diet and preserved brain structural connectivity in older subjects

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

Supporting Information

References

Citing Literature

References

Information

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Mediterranean diet and preserved brain structural connectivity in older subjects

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

Supporting Information

References

Citing Literature

References

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