Overview
- An 18-month randomized DIRECT PLUS study of about 300 adults compared a standard healthy diet, a calorie-restricted Mediterranean diet, and a green-enhanced Mediterranean pattern.
- Researchers assayed 87 serum proteins and found greater reductions in Galectin-9 and Decorin—proteins associated with accelerated brain aging—in the green-enhanced group.
- The green-focused pattern emphasized polyphenol-rich choices such as 3–4 cups of green tea daily, walnuts, and Mankai, which investigators suggest may act via anti-inflammatory pathways.
- The results, published in Clinical Nutrition, report changes in circulating biomarkers rather than cognitive performance or dementia outcomes.
- Independent clinicians and the study team caution that confirmation in larger, more diverse populations with longer follow-up is needed, alongside consideration of practical intake and safety of frequent green tea consumption.