The role of physical activity and diet in preventing cognitive decline

In old age there is a growing incidence of cognitive deficits. Several risk factors (intrinsic and extrinsic) can affects the brain health status of elderly people. In particular, physical inactivity, sedentary behaviour and metabolic disorders related to unhealthy nutrition, could contribute to the worsening of cognitive status. Unfortunately, drug treatments have not been successful in preventing or treating cognitive decline in the elderly.Non-pharmacological but ecological strategies are needed to reduce age-related physical decline and reduce disease-related cognitive impairment in the elderly. Exercise and diet are two protective mechanisms that may reduce the cognitive decline attributed to the normal aging process and protect against changes related to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Changes in favour of a more active lifestyle and dietary changes can potentially improve risk factors for cognitive decline. In fact, both a healthy diet and physical activity contribute to the improvement of the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal system as well as counteracting oxidative stress and reducing inflammation processes. The purpose of this study was to summarize the scientific evidence relating to the role of exercise and diet in neuroprotection and the biological mechanisms that contribute to brain health and improve the quality of life of elderly. These data are needed before more definitive conclusions can be drawn about the effectiveness of these lifestyle interventions to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Furthermore we wanted to extrapolate recommendations regarding the most appropriate types of physical activity and diet to maintain brain health, in an effort to help clinicians and health operators to promote healthier lifestyles.