Mind diet adherence associated with lower Zonulin levels in older Parkinson's patients

Aim: This study investigates the association between adherence to the MIND diet and serum zonulin levels in older adults with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: Data were collected through structured survey forms and blood samples. The survey assessed general information, 24-hour food recalls, anthropometric measurements, the MIND diet adherence and physical activity levels. Zonulin levels were analysed from blood samples. Results: The study included 57 older adults with PD in stages 1–3 on the Hoehn & Yahr scale (29 women, 28 men; mean age 70.2 ± 4.6 years). Zonulin levels were negatively correlated with dietary total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). In adjusted analyses, higher adherence to the MIND diet was associated with lower zonulin levels (β = −0.25). Conclusions: These findings suggest a novel link between adherence to the MIND diet and reduced zonulin levels. MIND diet could have potential benefits for neurological function and intestinal barrier integrity.