Greater adherence to the DASH diet, plant-based dietary patterns, or diets with lower hyperinsulinemia and inflammation was associated with lower risk of subjective cognitive decline and better cognitive function in adults.

Question Are healthy dietary patterns associated with lower risk of subjective cognitive decline and better objectively measured cognitive function?

Findings In this cohort study performing a systematic evaluation of 6 dietary patterns among 159 347 participants, greater adherence to a healthy diet, exemplified by the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, was associated with lower risk of subjective cognitive decline and better objectively measured cognitive function. The associations were most pronounced when the diet was followed during midadulthood (ages 45–54 years).

Meaning Results suggest that a healthy diet, such as the DASH diet, was associated with early indicators of cognitive aging, which underscores the importance of a healthy diet for maintaining long-term cognitive health.