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Adherence to the Mediterranean diet, inflammatory biomarkers and cognitive status in older Italian adults

Margherita Grasso1, Francesca L'Episcopo1, Annamaria Fidilio2

  • 1Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.

Frontiers in Nutrition
|May 15, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Adhering to the Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). This dietary pattern may lower MCI likelihood by influencing neuroinflammation markers.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Nutritional Science
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia.
  • Neuroinflammation and lifestyle factors like diet are implicated in cognitive decline progression.
  • Understanding modifiable factors is crucial for preventing cognitive impairment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the link between Mediterranean diet adherence, neuroinflammation, and MCI in older adults.
  • To explore the role of specific inflammatory biomarkers (TGF-β1, TNF-α) in this association.
  • To assess the potential mediating effect of inflammation on the diet-MCI relationship.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study with 92 older adults (37 with MCI).
  • Dietary intake assessed via food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and MedDietScore.
  • Plasma biomarkers (TGF-β1, TNF-α) measured by ELISA; cognitive status by MMSE and MoCA.

Main Results:

  • MCI participants had lower TGF-β1 and higher TNF-α levels.
  • Higher Mediterranean diet adherence correlated with a lower likelihood of MCI (OR: 0.07).
  • Inflammatory biomarkers partially mediated the association between diet and MCI.

Conclusions:

  • Greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet is linked to a reduced likelihood of MCI.
  • Inflammatory biomarkers may play a mediating role in this protective effect.
  • Dietary interventions focusing on the Mediterranean diet could be a strategy for cognitive decline prevention.
Keywords:
Mediterranean dietdiet qualityinflammationmild cognitive impairmentneuroinflammation

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