Researchers at Rush University in Chicago examined how different diets affect older adults with overweight or obesity, following a group of participants for three years.
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The study included more than 500 adults aged 65 to 84, with an average body mass index (BMI) of 34, placing them in the obese range. Most participants were women, and 88% were white.
Participants were assigned to follow one of three diets:
DASH Diet: Focused on heart health and lowering blood pressure by reducing sodium intake; included vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in limited amounts.
MIND Diet: A hybrid of the Mediterranean and DASH diets emphasizing brain health and reducing dementia risk, encouraging foods such as berries and brain-friendly nutrients.
Typical Western Diet: Served as a control group.
Those on the DASH and MIND diets were asked to reduce their daily calorie intake by 250 calories—roughly the equivalent of a chocolate bar or three boiled eggs—without a strict total calorie target.
Results showed significant health improvements associated with weight loss:
114 participants lost more than 10% of their body weight, leading to an 8% decrease in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and a 12% increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Levels of the hormone adiponectin rose by 54%, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.
Blood sugar levels dropped by about 6% compared to those who did not lose weight.
Researchers noted that the type of diet did not have a major impact on the results; instead, the daily calorie reduction was the key factor driving health benefits.
They wrote:
“The trial demonstrated that modest calorie restriction leading to weight loss is associated with favorable improvements in cardiovascular risk factors among older adults with overweight and obesity.”
The team added that a key limitation of the study was the exclusion of individuals with cognitive impairment or dementia, which prevented assessment of the potential brain benefits of the DASH and MIND diets. — Daily Mail
