subject: How Nutrition Can Help Your Memory [print this page] Many people see memory loss as a natural part of the ageing process, resigning themselves to it
However, research has now shown that there is a great deal that can be done and that we do not necessarily need to accept that our memory will falter as we age.
Of course, anyone can experience moments of memory loss at any age, but it is thought that fully 10% of us will develop the irreversible condition known as Alzheimer's disease. Though research into demential and Alzheimer's disease continues, we now know that certain nutrients contained within foods can assist in keeping the brain young and our memory active.
Best of all, we do not need a prescription in order to benefit from these wonderful substances.
Research conducted at the University of Illinois, for example, has found that a substance called luteolin can greatly aid in the prevention of brain inflammation, which can lead on to dementia and Alzheimer's. Luteolin is found in abundance in vegetables such as celery, carrots and green peppers, as well as in extra virgin olive oil, thyme, and chamomile tea.
Another study showed that choline, which is plentiful in organic free-range eggs, cauliflower, navy and soybeans, tofu, and almonds, is helpful in the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Low levels of this particular neurotransmitter are associated with Alzheimer's disease.
According to one study from the University of Exeter, older people who have low levels of vitamin D, the 'sunshine vitamin', are more than 4 times more likely to develop memory problems. Vitamin D is easily produced in the body when the skin is exposed to ultra violet B light, but it may also be taken in supplement form.
There is yet another nutrient that has been shown to reduce the risk of the neurotoxicity believed to be a major cause of Alzheimer's, and that is something called quercetin. Quercetin is found in blueberries, blackberries, apples, Concord grape juice, dark chocolate and turmeric.
Additionally, blueberries provide a great source of antioxidants and new research highlights the role that this tasty fruit can play in improving memory. Berries contain polyphenols, which research has shown can help brain function by preventing cell death, repairing damaged tissue, and stimulating new neural growth.
Also, researchers at Tuft's University have found that folate -- a nutrient plentiful in green leafy vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, collards, and spring greens -- can help reduce memory loss when regularly included in the diet.
A really promising substance that may be of great help with memory loss and Alzheimer's is curcumin, the biologically active factor found in turmeric, the spice that gives the yellow colour to curry. It is turmeric that gives curry powder its yellow color and is commonly used in Indian cookery. Research conducted internationally, from California to Italy has demonstrated that curcumin and turmeric may play an important role in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. It has also been established that curcumin may help correct the immune defects observed in people with Alzheimer's disease.
Use food as your medicine if you are concerned about age-related memory loss. By eating the right foods and increasing your dietary intake of the valuable substances they naturally contain, you may well be able to retain your memory for as long as you live.
