Lifestyle makeover may shield aging brains from Depression-Linked decline

NCT ID NCT07009223

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether lifestyle changes—like following a Mediterranean diet, exercising regularly, or doing cognitive training—can prevent cognitive decline and improve mood in people aged 50 to 80 who have depressive symptoms or major depression but no current memory problems. Researchers will compare three groups over 12 weeks, measuring changes in depression, quality of life, and thinking skills. They will also look at how these changes affect gut bacteria and inflammation.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Mediterranean diet, physical activity, and cognitive training

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that simple lifestyle changes like diet and exercise help protect memory and thinking skills in older adults with depression.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (120 people) testing multiple interventions, so results may not apply broadly. It also relies on participants sticking to the programs, which can be challenging.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression Inflammation inflammatory disease major depressive disorder Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • IRCCS Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli

    RECRUITING

    Brescia, 25125, Italy

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••