Research Symposium

BIO

Jonathan Michel is a third-year Cell and Molecular Neuroscience major at Florida State University. Originally from Pembroke Pines, Florida, he developed a strong interest in brain health and cognitive aging through personal experiences with Alzheimer’s disease in his family. His research focuses on the relationship between nutrition and vascular dementia, with the broader aim of developing interventions that support healthy aging. As a participant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), Jonathan is preparing to launch a Directed Individual Study examining psychosocial and behavioral strategies to improve late-life health outcomes. He plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician, integrating clinical practice with neuroscience research to help prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases.

Impact of Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Minerals in Risk Factors of Vascular Dementia ​

Abstract

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a growing global health concern, exacerbated by an aging population and its associated economic and social burdens. While there is no cure, prevention strategies targeting modifiable risk factors—particularly diet—have gained significant attention. Macronutrients, micronutrients, and minerals play crucial roles in cognitive function and vascular health, yet their specific mechanisms remain unclear. Dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean and ketogenic diets have shown the potential to reduce dementia risk by improving metabolic and cardiovascular health. This study examines the relationship between specific dietary components and VaD risk factors in high-risk older adults through a 10-week pilot clinical trial. Thirty-one participants (aged 55–85 years, MoCA ≥16) were randomized into four intervention groups: a Mediterranean diet or a Mediterranean ketogenic diet, with or without a support group. Assessments included dietary tracking (Nutritionix), blood biomarker analysis, gut microbiome composition, and cognitive testing using the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery. Macronutrient ratios, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and essential minerals (magnesium, potassium, calcium, selenium, zinc) were analyzed alongside vascular risks. This study aims to identify how specific dietary components are associated with change in executive functioning, blood pressure, and cholesterol across a 10-week dietary intervention. These findings will contribute to a broader understanding of dietary interventions for mitigating vascular dementia risk in aging populations.

Keywords: Vascular Dementia, Diet, Cognitive Function, Macronutrients, Micronutrients