UK scientists have found that the Mediterranean diet, which includes fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish and olive oil, could help in reducing the risk of developing dementia later in life.

Scientists at the University of Exeter’s Medical School found that the diet could boost cognitive function, reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and even cancer.

Now, health experts have claimed in a letter to British Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt, that the diet was being largely overlooked because of the low awareness and prestige given to diet by many in the medical profession, News.com.au reported.

London cardiologist Dr Aseem Malhotra said that public needs to know that such a diet is far more potent than the often dubious benefit of many medications and without side effects.

BDST: 1659 HRS, FEB-02, 2014