Anti inflammatory diet reduces dementia risk even with high biomarkers
Thursday, 9 July 2026, 20:48
Choosing healthier foods such as fruit and nuts instead of ultraprocessed snacks pays off over time, according to research. EMS Forster Productions/Digital Vision/Getty Images
A long-term Swedish study tracked older adults and found lower dietary inflammation associated with fewer dementia cases over years. Effects were strongest among participants with high p-tau217 over time, suggesting diet could influence risk even with biological vulnerability
A healthy diet is often linked to better brain function. New data suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet may lower dementia risk, even in people with elevated biological risk
In the study, more than 1,800 adults aged 60 years and older from Sweden participated who did not have dementia at baseline. Over six years, participants completed detailed dietary questionnaires, and three biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s disease and brain damage were measured in blood. The study itself followed participants for up to 15 years, during which 240 participants were diagnosed with dementia
Researchers found that people with a diet with lower inflammatory potential had a lower risk of developing dementia. In the group with higher levels of the biomarker associated with Alzheimer’s disease, p-tau217, more consistent adherence to an anti-inflammatory diet was associated with a reduction in risk of about 29%. Similar trends were observed for other biomarkers related to neuronal injury and inflammation
There is no single official dietary plan named the anti-inflammatory diet. Instead, it is a way of describing a general eating pattern that is associated with lower levels of chronic inflammation in the body
– Dr. Liana Ven
What is an anti-inflammatory diet
Although there is no single official plan, under this term they mean a diet with lower inflammation. In the study, the diet was assessed with a Dietary Inflammation Index: participants with larger shares of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes and whole grains and with lower consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, ultra-processed foods and red meat had lower inflammatory potential
A close overlap with the Mediterranean diet is also noticeable – it emphasizes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, olive oil and healthy fats. The optimal takeaway is not to search for a single universal eating pattern, but to favor a diet of minimally processed foods and limited ultra-processed foods. Such a diet supports the brain and overall health
The mechanism by which inflammation affects the brain
Inflammation is part of the natural immune system response. It is beneficial during infections or injuries, but chronic low-grade inflammation can persist for years and, according to researchers, raise the risk of age-related diseases. Such inflammation can damage blood vessels and neurons, activate immune cells and reduce cognitive functions. It is important to remember that dementia is multifactorial: genetics, vascular risks, hearing loss, and lifestyle play roles among other factors. Inflammation remains only one of the significant variables.
Should you change your diet given a family history of disease
Experts emphasize that while the studies add arguments in favor of healthy eating, it is too early to cement conclusions. This is an observational study that does not prove a causal relationship. Participation was also self-reported, which can affect data accuracy. The study was conducted among Swedish older adults, so the conclusions are not necessarily fully generalizable to other populations. Having risk factors does not mean dementia is inevitable
Other habits that support brain health
Besides nutrition, important habits for reducing risks include:
- regular physical activity;
- control of blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and blood sugar;
- quitting smoking and moderate alcohol intake;
- adequate sleep;
- an active social life and mental engagement – staying connected with loved ones, participating in communities, hobbies, and learning new things.
Summary
Diets that reduce inflammation are also associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and other illnesses. They support healthy weight and metabolic health. Even if future data lessen the impact on dementia risk, such a way of eating has other meaningful health benefits. The main takeaway is to cultivate a long-term habit rather than a short-term action focused on a specific disease
Don’t miss other news:
- New research shows that strict adherence to the Mediterranean diet reduces dementia risk by at least 35% in people with two copies of the APOE4 gene.
- New research shows that increasing daily steps can slow cognitive decline in older adults with early Alzheimer’s by reducing tau protein accumulation in the brain.
