From Heart to Diabetes; Check the Health Benefits of MIND Diet

The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet is based on the Mediterranean and DASH diets with certain modifications. All diet plans come with advantages and disadvantages. Read on to know the health benefits of the MIND diet.

Updated Aug 30, 2023 | 05:37 PM IST

Health Benefits of MIND Diet

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You would be surprised to know the number of people who are following diet plans. There are different diet plans that one can follow; from keto to MIND to mediterranean and others. However, it is important that you choose a diet plan that addresses your health concerns and your fitness goals.

All diet plans come with advantages and disadvantages. This is also one of the reasons why people keep shifting from one diet plan to the other. When people think that the disadvantages of a certain diet outweigh its benefits; they shift to another diet. The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet is based on the Mediterranean and DASH diets with certain modifications.

This diet doesn’t focus on weight loss, instead, it helps to improve your heart health, blood sugar levels, brain health and also certain cancers. A person who follows the MIND diet has to consume plant-based foods and also limit the consumption of animal-based foods. You should also avoid foods that have saturated fats and added sugars. Portion control is also a major aspect of MIND diet.

There are several benefits of following the MIND diet. Here, take a look at some of them.

Brain Health

The MIND diet helps reduce the risks of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It also helps to improve your memory and cognitive function. The diet also prevents cognitive decline.

Inflammation

Inflammation can be a cause of several diseases. Chronic inflammation can give rise to autoimmune diseases, heart disease and also Alzheimer’s. Following the MIND diet can help lower inflammation in the body.

Cardiovascular Disease

MIND diet has plant-based foods in them which are rich in fibre, complex carbs, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and phytochemicals. These help to lower the risks of heart disease and cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a cause of heart disease and lowering of cholesterol can help lower the risks of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes

Foods rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals can help to lower blood sugar levels. Several studies show that consuming whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help to manage diabetes.

Weight Loss

Even though the diet doesn’t focus on weight loss, following it can help you lose weight. Consuming plant-based foods and avoiding sweets, dairy, fried and fast foods can help in weight loss.

Depression

The MIND diet can also also help reduce the symptoms of depression.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.

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