Nutritional Strategies for Enhancing Neurological Function: A Diet-Based Approach to Cognitive Health

Abstract

The human brain, despite constituting only 2% of body weight, consumes approximately 20% of the body's energy, underscoring its reliance on adequate nutrition for optimal function. Emerging evidence highlights the profound impact of diet on cognitive health, with specific nutrients and dietary patterns influencing neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. This review explores the role of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins) in supporting brain health, emphasizing their ability to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, key contributors to neurodegenerative diseases. Dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean and ketogenic diets are examined for their neuroprotective benefits, including improved cognitive performance and reduced risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, the gut-brain axis is discussed as a critical pathway through which diet modulates brain function, with prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber-rich foods promoting a balanced microbiome and reducing neuroinflammation. This paper underscores the importance of personalized nutrition strategies in optimizing cognitive health and preventing neurological disorders, offering a comprehensive overview of diet-based approaches to enhance neurological function.