Effect of nutrition on neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic review

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#alzheimer-disease #cognitive-dysfunction #fatty-acids-omega-3 #humans #neurodegenerative-diseases

Effect of nutrition on neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic review

Bianchi et al., 2021 | Nutr Neurosci | Systematic Review

Citation

Bianchi Vittorio Emanuele, Herrera Pomares Fredy, Laura Rizzi. Effect of nutrition on neurodegenerative diseases. A systematic review. Nutr Neurosci. 2021-Oct;24(10):810-834. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2019.1681088

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive functional loss of neurons in the brain, causing cognitive impairment and motoneuron disability. Although multifactorial interactions are evident, nutrition plays an essential role in the pathogenesis and evolution of these diseases. A systematic literature search was performed, and the prevalence of studies evaluated the effect of the Mediterranean diet (MeDiet), nutritional support, EPA and DHA, and vitamins on memory and cognition impairment. The data showed that malnutrition and low body mass index (BMI) is correlated with the higher development of dementia and mortality. MeDiet, nutritional support, and calorie-controlled diets play a protective effect against cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD) while malnutrition and insulin resistance represent significant risk factors. Malnutrition activates also the gut-microbiota-brain axis dysfunction that exacerbate neurogenerative process. Omega-3 and -6, and the vitamins supplementation seem to be less effective in protecting neuron degeneration. Insulin activity is a prevalent factor contributing to brain health while malnutrition correlated with the higher development of dementia and mortality.

Key Findings

Insulin activity is a prevalent factor contributing to brain health while malnutrition correlated with the higher development of dementia and mortality.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition cognitive

MeSH Terms

  • Alzheimer Disease
  • Cognitive Dysfunction
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Humans
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases
  • Nutritional Status

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: omega-3

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09