MIND Diet

Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. Combines Mediterranean and DASH diets with a focus on brain-healthy foods.

In this guide8 sections
  1. 01Goal of the plan
  2. 02Who it is for
  3. 03Example meals and foods
  4. 04Foods to limit or adapt
  5. 05Grocery guidance
  6. 06Hydration guidance
  7. 07Flexibility and sustainability
  8. 08Individual nutrition note
Real chefs preparing food in a professional kitchen
Real chefs preparing food in a professional kitchen. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Visiting_Chef_Edward_Lee_prepares_food_in_the_White_House_Kitchen_with_Executive_Chef_Cristeta_Comerford,_Wednesday,_April_26,_2023,_before_the_official_State_Dinner_for_the_Republic_of_Korea.jpg. Visiting Chef Edward Lee prepares food in the White House Kitchen with Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford, Wednesday, April 26, 2023, before the official State Dinner for the Republic of Korea by The White House, Public domain. Sourced from Wikimedia Commons.

Goal of the plan

Source best-for note: Brain health, Alzheimer's prevention, cognitive function.

Who it is for

The source category is Brain Health, with difficulty marked Easy.

Example meals and foods

The source macro split is 20% protein, 50% carbohydrate, and 30% fat.

Meal timing: 3 meals, specific weekly frequency targets.

  • Leafy greens (6+/week)
  • Other vegetables
  • Berries (2+/week)
  • Nuts (5+/week)
  • Olive oil
  • Whole grains (3+/day)
  • Fish (1+/week)
  • Beans
  • Poultry (2+/week)
  • Wine (1/day optional)

Foods to limit or adapt

  • Butter & margarine (<1 tbsp/day)
  • Cheese (<1/week)
  • Red meat (<4/week)
  • Fried food (<1/week)
  • Sweets (<5/week)

Grocery guidance

Suggested addition

Build a simple list around the foods you already enjoy, then add one or two easy repeatable meals before trying to overhaul everything.

Hydration guidance

Suggested addition

Keep water available through the day and adjust fluids around heat, sweat rate, long runs, and higher-fiber meals.

Flexibility and sustainability

Suggested addition

Based on observational studies showing reduced dementia risk. Practical and not overly restrictive. Good for older adults.

Individual nutrition note

Suggested addition

Nutrition advice should be adapted to the individual. Consider medical history, medications, preferences, budget, culture, and support from a qualified clinician or dietitian when needed.