Date of Defense
4-24-2025
Date of Graduation
6-2025
Department
Biological Sciences
First Advisor
Dianna E. Sachs
Second Advisor
Janet Hahn
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major concern, especially for racial and ethnic populations who face higher risks. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), which includes plant-based foods, healthy fats, and omega-3s, has been linked to lower cognitive decline and a reduced risk of Alzheimer's. However, research specifically examining its effects across racial and ethnic groups remains limited. This thesis explores how following the Mediterranean diet impacts Alzheimer’s risk among populations like Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian American individuals. A review of studies from 2020 to 2025 found that while the Mediterranean diet seems to help with cognitive decline overall, there’s not enough research focused on its effects within specific groups. Many studies don’t break down results by ethnicity, making it hard to understand if the diet works the same across different populations. Recommendations for future research include conducting more targeted studies that take into account cultural, genetic, and environmental factors, as well as looking into how social factors such as food deserts might impact access to Mediterranean foods. To reduce Alzheimer’s risk in diverse populations, we need a better understanding of how this diet works for different groups.
Recommended Citation
Kauer, Sukhmanpreet, "Exploring the Mediterranean Diet's Impact on Alzheimer's Disease Risk in Racial and Ethnic Populations" (2025). Honors Theses. 3973.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/3973
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Restricted
Restricted to Campus until
2-8-2026