Articles

The Mind-Meal Connection: The Role of Diet in Healthy Brain Aging

Publication Date: 12 September 2025

Author(s): Bridget Cassady, PhD, RDN, LD

Summary:

In this article, published on the American Society on Aging's Generations blog site, Abbott's own Bridget Cassady, PhD, RDN, LD, explores how nutrition and lifestyle choices can support cognitive health in older adults. While age-related cognitive decline is natural, adopting brain-healthy habits can help maintain mental sharpness. A key strategy is following dietary patterns like the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets, which emphasize: 

  • Olive oil, whole grains, colorful fruits and vegetables
  • Fatty fish, nuts, seeds, legumes, and berries
  • Moderate dairy, limited sodium, saturated fats, and processed meats
The post also highlights six lifestyle factors that support brain health:
    • Balanced diet with hydration
    • Regular physical activity
    • Avoiding tobacco
    • Social interaction
    • Cognitive engagement (e.g., reading, puzzles)
    • Moderating alcohol consumption

    Dr Cassady also notes that oral nutritional supplements may help older adults meet their dietary needs when food intake is insufficient.

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    Author Bio(s):

    Bridget Cassady, PhD, RDN, LD

    Bridget Cassady, PhD, RDN, LD, is a doctorate-level Senior Manager of Adult Nutrition Science and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Abbott. She supports the global adult therapeutic nutrition business with an emphasis on critical care, ICU, and surgical patients.

    Prior to joining Abbott, Bridget worked in various roles in the global food and healthcare industry and brings over decade’s worth of experience in research and development to her current role. She is passionate about improving the standard of care in the aging population and works to highlight the importance of nutrition for older adults. Her expertise includes adult medical nutrition therapy, biochemistry and physiology, aging, and cognitive sciences.

    Bridget graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Winona State University in Cell and Molecular Biology. She earned her PhD through the Interdepartmental Nutrition Program and Ingestive Behaviors Research Center at Purdue University. Bridget completed her dietetic internship through Iowa State University.

    Category
    Older Adult General Nutrition