Exploring the correlation between pro-inflammatory dietary and lifestyle patterns and cognitive function:...

Area of Science:

• Nutrition and Public Health
• Neuroscience
• Gerontology

Background:

• Chronic low-grade inflammation is a growing concern for cognitive decline.
• Investigating dietary and lifestyle factors contributing to inflammation and cognitive function is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the association between pro-inflammatory dietary and lifestyle patterns and cognitive functioning in Italian adults.
• To assess the impact of the Dietary Inflammation Score (DIS) and Lifestyle Inflammation Score (LIS) on cognitive status.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Dietary Inflammation Score (DIS) and Lifestyle Inflammation Score (LIS) to quantify inflammatory potential.
• Assessed cognitive function using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test in 2474 Italian adults.
• Employed multinomial-multivariable logistic analysis, adjusting for inflammation biomarkers and depressive symptoms (PHQ-9).

Main Results:

• Higher DIS and LIS were associated with increased odds of cognitive decline (MoCA ≤18).
• The association between DIS and cognitive decline was significantly stronger in individuals with moderate to severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥10).
• Lifestyle factors (LIS) showed a weaker association with cognitive decline compared to dietary factors (DIS).

Conclusions:

• A high dietary inflammatory potential is a significant contributor to cognitive decline in Italian adults.
• The combination of a pro-inflammatory diet and depressive symptoms exacerbates cognitive impairment risk.
• Highlights the importance of nutrition-focused primary prevention strategies for cognitive health, particularly for those with depression.