Alzheimer's Association Pushes MIND Diet and Nutrition for Brain Health

Foods that benefit the body also support brain health over the long term.

"CBS Mornings" has partnered with sponsor the Alzheimer's Association for a three-part series, "Brain Health: From Awareness to Action." The series looks at habits that may reduce dementia risk later in life.

Alzheimer's Association CEO and president Joanne Pike said nutrition ranks as a main way to promote brain health, along with more physical activity. "The Alzheimer's Association conducted a lifestyle intervention research study that showed physical activity, nutrition and brain challenge really saves and increases your cognitive abilities," Pike told "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King.

Diet and nutrition form a key part of the association's new "6-Step Challenge," which offers daily tips to aid cognitive function.

Foods to eat, and limit, for brain health

The MIND diet, aimed at brain health, stresses meals high in fruits, vegetables (especially leafy greens), whole grains and lean proteins. Those choices "are nutrient-rich and dense, with great food value," Pike said.

Backed by years of scientific research, the diet also calls for limiting processed foods and added sugar.

Pike recommends tracking food intake in a log "to understand what are you eating and how can you improve or make those simple swaps from things that might not be as healthy to something that's a little bit healthier."

Participants in the Alzheimer's Association challenge get advice on adding these and other steps to daily routines. The aim is to build lasting healthier habits, Pike said.

"This is a movement about increasing brain health over time, and also starting at an earlier age, understanding that your brain health at 40 and 50 is going to impact how you age," she said. "You can't be too young to think about your brain health."