21 October 2013
According to a new study from France a diet rich in carotenoids such as beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin during midlife may contribute to the maintenance of cognitive function in one’s old age.
The observational study investigated a potential link between carotenoid intakes, blood concentrations and cognitive functions of 2,983 middle-aged participants during 13 years (1). The study results showed that participants with an increased consumption of orange and green-colored fruits and vegetables, vegetable oils and soup, showed higher plasma carotenoid levels and better results in cognitive performance tests (e.g., working memory, attention, and word generation), compared to participants with lower carotenoid intakes.
The researchers commented that the positive association between a carotenoid-rich dietary pattern and sub- sequent cognitive performance supports previous research reporting better cognitive status, lower cognitive decline or lower probability or risk of dementia among participants with a high beta-carotene intake (2). In a randomized controlled trial with older women, increased intakes of lutein (12mg/day), known to accumulate in the brain, alone or in combination with docosahexaenoic acid (800 mg/day) significantly improved cogni- tive function (3). Carotenoids are well known for their role as antioxidants, potentially helping to protect the brain against oxidation and inflammation occurring during the aging process (4).
22 October 2014
A new study from Australia reports that low blood concentrations of vitamin B1, B2, B12 and folate seem to play a role in the development of fat cells and childhood obesity.
12 September 2014
According to a new review from the UK, vitamin D supplementation can increase upper and lower limb strength.
21 January 2015
The preventive effect of adequate magnesium intake on developing type 2 diabetes appears to vary depending on genetic variations and ethnicity, reports a new US study.
