Scientific studies continue to show positive links between eating a Mediterranean-style diet and reduced risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.  This is especially significant as Baby Boomers -- a huge portion of the population - are moving into their golden years when cognitive decline is common.  Simple strategies can help feed the brain by bringing a Med diet, focused on vegetables, fruits, fish, legumes, whole grains and olive oil, to the table.

"Centuries of anecdotal evidence about the Mediterranean diet's influence on longevity and mental sharpness is backed up by solid scientific research," said Sara Baer-Sinnott, President, Oldways, the internationally respected food and nutrition non-profit.  "It is reassuring that eating the Med Way can keep the brain strong -- and it is never too late to start."

Oldways offers 4 simple strategies to help seniors - both kitchen experts and beginner cooks - deliver the benefits of the Med diet:

1. Keep it Simple.  Many delicious meals take little or no cooking.  Think of tangy greens tossed with bits of rotisserie chicken from the grocery store.  Or, juicy, ripe tomatoes straight from the garden or farmer's market tossed with extra virgin olive oil, pasta, basil and a little cheese.  Add salmon or walnuts for extra omega-3s.

2. One Day of Cooking/7 Days of Eating.  After a trip to the grocery store, select one day to cook...and enjoy the bounty all week long.  For instance, on Monday morning, roast a variety of vegetables, which you can toss into pasta or an omelet later in the week.  Bake chicken breasts and add one to salad or make a delicious sandwich on crusty whole grain bread.

3. Freeze it.  Foods retain their nutrients when frozen so stock up. Keep pre-cooked frozen shrimp in your home freezer for one-pot sautés and pasta dishes.  Toss in a few frozen veggies and you have a tasty meal.

4. Stock your pantry.  Stock your pantry with versatile Med ingredients so you always have foods like olive oil, canned tomatoes, tuna, rice, pasta, and other whole grains on hand. It's amazing how many easy Mediterranean meals you can make from a well-stocked pantry, when there's no time or energy to shop.

Visit Oldways' web sites (www.oldwayspt.org and www.mediterraneanmark.org) for information on the Mediterranean Diet, including:

• The updated Mediterranean Diet Pyramid

• Scientific studies on the Med diet and brain health

• Tips for following the Med diet

• Easy, affordable Med diet recipes