223036 Influences of physical activity and nutrition on cognitive profile of an aging cohort

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 : 3:15 PM - 3:30 PM

Lisandra Perez, MD, MPH(c) , Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Loma Linda University- School of Public Health, Colton, CA
Atif Adam , School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
A. Dean Sherzai, MD, MAS , Director of Memory Disorders Clinic, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
Study Objective: To detect a relationship between physical activity and nutrition on cognitive decline in the elderly.

Background: Physical activity has been proven to enhance cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and alertness. It strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, reduces LDL and increases HDL, all of which can affect brain functioning. Many studies have also demonstrated a positive relationship between exercise and cognitive function. But this relationship needs to be more clearly elucidated. We chose to investigate the relationship in an Adventist Health Study cohort (AHS-1), which is unique in its dietary and lifestyle habits. This population has a large proportion of vegetarians, non-smokers, and non-alcohol drinkers. This would allow us to better delineate the influence of exercise on cognitive health.

Methods: A cohort from the AHS-1 of 500 non-Hispanic White subjects were randomly selected and asked to complete a comprehensive nutrition, lifestyle, and spiritual questionnaire along with a myriad of laboratory studies and neuropsychological tests.

Results: A multiple regression analysis will be performed on the relationship between diet, exercise and cognitive function (CVLT). We anticipate an inverse relationship between physical activity and cognitive performance, which would be augmented by a long term vegetarian diet.

Discussion: We will attempt to identify nutrients and diet patterns that have an augmenting positive influence along with exercise.

Learning Areas:
Chronic disease management and prevention
Epidemiology

Learning Objectives:
1. Analyze the relationship between nutrition and physical activity among vegetarian and non-vegetarian subjects. 2. Demonstrate a relationship between nutrition and physical activity on the risk of cognitive decline.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Aging

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have a medical background and I'm conducting research in neurology and dementia, while completing an MPH in biostatistics.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 4276.0: Nutrition and Aging