Regular avocado consumption is associated with better cognitive function in older people, according to a cross-sectional analysis of the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
A total of 2,886 people aged 60 years and over, who took part in the 2011-14 NHANES, were sorted into groups of avocado consumers and avocado non-consumers. Their cognitive performance was evaluated using four validated tests: Alzheimer’s recall, fluency and digital symbol substitution. The avocado consuming group delivered significantly better results across all four tests and had a better overall cognitive score, which persisted even after adjusting for any confounding factors.
Practice Tips
- Recommend regular avocado consumption to support cognitive health in adults
- Educate patients and clients on the benefits of healthy eating, ensuring a wide variety of nutritional foods
Reference
Cheng FW, Ford NA, Taylor MK. US Older Adults That Consume Avocado or Guacamole Have Better Cognition Than Non-consumers: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014. Front Nutr. 2021 Oct 14;8:746453. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2021.746453.
