A study from Iowa State University found that drinking red wine and eating cheese could reduce the risk of dementia. The study of 1800 Brits between the ages of 44 and 76 found that a daily glass of red wine, eating cheese, and having lamb once a week helped protect the brain from damage, due to the levels of protein. Cheese was found to be the most protective food against cognitive problems. And, interestingly, other red meats did not have the same positive effects on the brain as lamb. The worst food for the brain? Salt. Researchers found that the risk for Alzheimer’s was significantly worse when high levels of salt were consumed.
While he acknowledged that genetics could play a role, neuroscience PhD candidate Brandon Klinedinst said, "I believe the right food choices can prevent the disease and cognitive decline altogether … Perhaps the silver bullet we're looking for is upgrading how we eat. Knowing what that entails contributes to a better understanding of Alzheimer's and putting this disease in a reverse trajectory."