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.