These tasty diets offer many disease-fighting benefits, too. Studies have shown they can cut the risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, and several types of cancer. But the diet doesn’t just help your body. It can also help your brain by fighting Alzheimer’s disease.

Research Reveals Brain-Food Link
Recent studies have found that people who eat a Mediterranean diet have a much lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease. In one study, the people who followed the diet most closely had a 68 percent lower risk for the condition, compared with those who didn’t stick with it as well.

Researchers think the antioxidants in fruits, vegetables, and other foods in the Mediterranean diet may help protect the brain against damage that might lead to Alzheimer’s. Or these foods may help control inflammation in the brain, which could contribute to the disease.

Tour the Mediterranean from Your Kitchen
To give your meals a Mediterranean flavor:

• Drink a glass of pomegranate juice with breakfast.
• Dip slices of fruit into low-fat yogurt for a snack.
• Try a bean or vegetable soup for lunch, such as a zesty gazpacho.
• Sauté broccoli rabe or other greens with tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic for a quick side dish.

Want Something New for Dinner?
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