Dietary Phytoestrogen Intake and Cognitive Function in Older Women

BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with a decline in cognitive function; we explored the possible influence of dietary phytoestrogens on this decline. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 301 Dutch women aged 60-75 years. Dietary isoflavone and lignan intake was assessed with a food-frequency questionnaire covering habitual diet in the year preceding enrolment. The endpoints were cognitive function measured in three domains: memory, processing capacity and speed, and executive function. Data were analyzed using linear regression models, after adjusting for confounders. RESULTS: No association between dietary isoflavone intake and cognitive function was found. High lignan intake was associated with a better performance in processing capacity and speed, and in executive function (p for trend over quartiles =.01 and.02, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: This finding calls for further research to elucidate the relatively underexplored role of lignans within the range of phytoestrogens.