27 August 2014
A new study from Germany reports that regular increased intakes of the polyphenol resveratrol seem to support memory performance and glucose metabolism in older adults.
In the randomized controlled trial, 46 participants aged between 50 and 75 years performed memory tests before and after they received either 200 mg resveratrol per day of or a placebo for 26 weeks (1). The study results showed that participants who were supplemented with resveratrol had significant improvements in the retention of words over 30 minutes compared with placebo. In addition, neuroimaging data showed that resveratrol led to a significantly increased functional connectivity of the hippocampus. Moreover, resveratrol supplementation was associated with decreased levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) – a marker of long-term presence of excess glucose in the blood.
The researchers commented that increased resveratrol intakes may be a new strategy to maintain brain health during aging. While earlier research has linked resveratrol intakes to improved blood flow in the brain (2), the new results indicate that the polyphenol may be able to modulate brain function. Resveratrol, found in grapes and red wine has been intensively investigated for potential cardiovascular benefits.
15 June 2011
According to a new US study, folic acid intake from dietary supplements or fortified grain products is unlikely to exacerbate problems associated with low vitamin B12 levels.
28 February 2014
A new US study reports that men who regularly consume foods high in lycopene may be half as likely to develop lethal prostate cancer compared to those with low intakes.
25 January 2013
A combination of daily vitamin D3 plus calcium intakes and an energy-restricted diet may boost fat mass loss, says a new Chinese study.
