If you are looking for a simple way to maintain brain health, the answer may actually be in the kitchen. A new study suggests that even relatively infrequent home cooking may have a positive effect on cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
The study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, was based on data from about 11,000 adults aged 65 and older as part of a large-scale Japanese study. The participants were asked how often they cook at home, and were also asked to assess their cooking skills.
The results were clear: Home cooking was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of dementia: A 23% reduction in risk was observed among men and a 27% reduction among women.
Another surprising finding was that even people with only basic cooking skills benefited significantly. Those who cooked at least once a week reduced their risk of dementia by about 67%.
How does it work?
According to the researchers, cooking is an activity that combines several important factors for brain health:
Healthier nutrition: More vegetables and fruit and less processed food
Physical activity: Shopping, standing, and food preparation
Cognitive challenge: Planning, selecting ingredients, and executing a recipe
This combination makes cooking a unique activity that engages both the body and the brain together.
One of the important messages from the study is that you do not need to be professional cooks to enjoy the benefits. On the contrary, beginners may experience an even greater effect, since the activity requires learning and mental effort.
In conclusion, even if you are used to ordering food or relying on ready-made meals, it is worth incorporating home cooking into your routine - even once a week. Beyond taste and savings, this may be a simple habit that can help maintain brain sharpness over time.