PROMED-COG: PROtein enriched MEDiterranean diet to combat undernutrition and promote healthy neuroCOGnitive ageing in older adults

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Undernutrition caused by the deficiency of energy, protein, vitamins and/or minerals, is very common in older ages. Approximately 1.3 million people aged over 65 in the UK are considered to be undernourished; over 90% of whom live in their own home. Undernutrition has significant negative effects on health and well-being, especially for people living with cognitive impairment. It leads to weight loss and faster decline in memory and thinking (cognitive) functions, falls, infections, disability, hospital admissions and loss of independence. It can also significantly increase the risk of dementia in later life. Therefore, it is critical to find effective solutions to prevent undernutrition to help people at risk of cognitive impairment live healthier lives.In this research, we will address identified gaps in existing knowledge by conducting a randomised controlled trial (PROMED-EX) in 105 undernourished adults with subjective memory complaint living in Northern Ireland. The aims of the PROMED-EX trial are to: (i) determine the effect of a protein enriched Mediterranean diet, with and without exercise, on cognitive function; (ii) understand how a protein enriched Mediterranean diet and exercise may act to influence nutritional status, and; (iii) evaluate the acceptability of diet and exercise to support better nutrition status and cognitive performance in older adults with subjective memory complaint. PROMED-EX is part of a larger European project to study how undernutrition can affect dementia risk in later life. The project will provide new and critical insight into the role of undernutrition in brain ageing and dementia risk and how modifications of dietary and exercise behaviour can act to prevent undernutrition for healthy brain ageing in older citizens. Ultimately, the research will produce evidence-based lifestyle guidelines for prevention of undernutrition and, specifically, the promotion of healthy brain ageing in older adults.