Mind diet adherence associated with lower Zonulin levels in older Parkinson's patients

This study investigates the association between adherence to the MIND diet and serum zonulin levels in older adults with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Data were collected through structured survey forms and blood samples. The survey assessed general information, 24-hour food recalls, anthropometric measurements, the MIND diet adherence and physical activity levels. Zonulin levels were analysed from blood samples.

The study included 57 older adults with PD in stages 1-3 on the Hoehn & Yahr scale (29 women, 28 men; mean age 70.2 ± 4.6 years). Zonulin levels were negatively correlated with dietary total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). In adjusted analyses, higher adherence to the MIND diet was associated with lower zonulin levels (β = -0.25).

These findings suggest a novel link between adherence to the MIND diet and reduced zonulin levels. MIND diet could have potential benefits for neurological function and intestinal barrier integrity.