Diets that are high in salt can permanently damage men’s memory, research has revealed.
A study found those consuming too much sodium saw a decline in their memory over a six-year period – particularly when trying to recall events. But it did not find the same effect for women.
Researchers say the findings, from an analysis of 1,200 people over 60, could be used to help delay the onset of dementia.
The study, published in the journal Neurobiology Of Aging, also found that for those with a strong genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s, a diet high in salt lowered the age at which they were likely to be diagnosed.
The NHS recommends adults should have no more than 6g of salt a day – that’s the equivalent of just a single teaspoon.
‘Our findings provide early evidence of a link between higher sodium intake and cognitive function, but more research is needed to fully understand how and why this relationship exists,’ said study author Dr Samantha Gardener, from Edith Cowan University in Australia.
‘There is some indication from previous studies that high sodium diets may contribute to processes in the brain associated with cognitive decline.
‘However, further investigation will be critical to determine the underlying mechanisms and inform future dietary recommendations aimed at reducing dementia risk.’
Eating too much salt could permanently damage men’s memories, research has found
Previous studies have estimated that around 40 per cent of all dementia cases could be prevented with lifestyle changes.
There are about 982,000 people with dementia in the UK – which is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040 – with Alzheimer’s affecting around 60 per cent of them.
Memory problems, thinking and reasoning difficulties and issues with language are common early symptoms of the condition, which then worsen over time.
The Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday and Alzheimer’s Society have partnered in a drive to beat dementia, which claims some 76,000 lives each year and is the UK’s biggest killer. The Defeating Dementia campaign aims to raise awareness of the disease, in an effort to increase early diagnosis, boost research and improve care.