🧠 Effects of intensive lifestyle changes on the progression of MCI or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease

Intensive Lifestyle Changes May Improve Early Dementia Symptoms
Comprehensive diet, exercise, stress management, and social support can slow or reverse cognitive decline in early Alzheimer’s.

Published In: Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy
Date: June 2024
Authors: Ornish, et al.
Link to Study: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13195-024-01482-z

Summary

This randomized controlled trial examined whether an intensive, multimodal lifestyle program could slow or reverse early cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early Alzheimer’s disease. Over 20 weeks, participants who adopted a plant-based diet, regular exercise, daily stress-reduction practices, and social support showed significant improvements, or less decline, in cognitive function compared to those receiving usual care.

Key Takeaways

✅ Participants in the lifestyle group improved or stabilized in cognitive tests, while the control group worsened.
✅ Significant improvements were seen in clinical ratings of dementia severity and cognitive function (CGIC, CDR, and ADAS-Cog).
✅ Blood biomarkers of Alzheimer’s (like Aβ42/40 ratio) improved in the lifestyle group.
✅ Gut microbiome changes suggested reduced AD risk in the lifestyle group only.
✅ The more participants adhered to the lifestyle program, the more their cognitive and biological markers improved.

Why It Matters for You

Even in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, it’s not too late. Intensive changes to diet, physical activity, stress, and social connection can have a meaningful impact on brain health. This gives hope and a tangible action plan for those diagnosed with MCI or early dementia.

Citation

Ornish, D., Madison, C., Kivipelto, M., et al. (2024). Effects of intensive lifestyle changes on the progression of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, 16:122. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13195-024-01482-z