A Cross‐Sectional Study to Evaluate the Impact of Dietary Patterns on Cognition in the Aging Urban Indian Population

Abstract

BackgroundThe impact of the pattern of daily food consumption on cognition is a less explored area. This study aims to identify the impact of dietary patterns on the cognition of the elderly population, specifically comparing absolute vegetarians and omnivores.MethodIt is a cross‐sectional analysis of the aging urban Indian population of 1237 participants recruited from the ongoing Tata Longitudinal Study of Aging (TLSA). The information on diet was obtained using a diet questionnaire. Cognition was assessed using COGNITO (Computerized Assessment of Information Processing), ACE (Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination) which includes memory, attention, fluency, language, and visuospatial span. Chi‐square test and multiple linear regression analysis models were used for statistical analysis.ResultResults reveal a cohort of 824 absolute vegetarians and 413 omnivores, with the latter being comparatively younger, though literacy rates show no significant difference between the groups. There is a significant association between omnivores and in few cognitive domains such as visual attention (β: 0.451, p<0.001), and dual attention (β: 0.368, p<0.002).ConclusionThe presented data suggests a noteworthy association between mixed dietary patterns, and cognitive function among aging urban Indians. Absolute vegetarians are recommended to consume more proteins in their preferred food forms to have a positive impact on cognition. Incorporating dietary recommendations with a focus on promoting a balanced diet has implications for public health interventions.