A recent study in the Neurology journal by the American Academy of Neurology has suggested a potential link between higher antioxidant levels in the blood and a reduced likelihood of developing dementia.
Researchers focused on three antioxidants: lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Foods such as kale, spinach, broccoli, peas, oranges, papaya, tangerines, and persimmons are rich sources of these antioxidants.
The study included 7,283 participants, each aged 45 or older. Initial assessments involved physical exams, interviews, and blood tests to determine antioxidant levels.
These participants were subsequently monitored for an average period of 16 years to identify who developed dementia.
Results indicated a potential protective effect of these antioxidants:
Higher lutein and zeaxanthin levels were associated with a lower risk of dementia. Specifically, every increase of 15.4 micromols/liter in these antioxidants correlated with a 7% reduced dementia risk.
For beta-cryptoxanthin, each increase of 8.6 micromols/liter was linked to a 14% reduction in dementia risk.
However, when considering other factors like education, income, and physical activity, the strength of the antioxidant-dementia link diminished, suggesting these elements might also play a role in determining dementia risk.
Implications and Limitations
Study author, Dr. May A. Beydoun of the National Institute on Aging, highlighted the importance of this research in the context of public health.
She stated, “Antioxidants might defend the brain against oxidative stress, which has the potential to damage cells.
However, more research is required to ascertain if increasing dietary intake of these antioxidants can shield the brain from dementia.”
A limitation to note is that antioxidant measurements were based on a single blood test, and therefore might not reflect the participants’ antioxidant levels throughout their life.
While the study presents a promising angle for dementia prevention through dietary choices, more comprehensive studies are required to validate these findings and understand the broader factors at play.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about low choline intake linked to higher dementia risk, and how eating nuts can affect your cognitive ability.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
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