Infant Cognition

Micronutrient Supplementation For Mothers Boosts Infant Cognitive Health

A major follow up study has determined pregnant women should take more micronutrients besides iron and folic acid to increase the long-term cognitive development of their children. The Supplementation with Multiple Micronutrients Intervention Trial (SUMMIT) lasted from 2001 – 2004.  Over 31,000 pregnant women participated in this study.  The study goals were to determine if…

Omega-3 and Cognition

Omega-3’s Linked to Better Cognitive Function in Mildly Impaired Older People

A new study finds daily supplementation with Omega-3 essential fatty acids may improve measures of cognitive function like perceptual speed and memory. 86 people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were randomly assigned to receive a placebo (olive oil) or an Omega-3 supplement (EPA 720 mg DHA 480 mg) daily for 6 months.  The average mean…

Cognitive Decline

Vitamin C and E Supplements May Protect Against Age-Related Brain Declines

Data from a recent study shows daily supplementation with Vitamin C and Vitamin E could reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Data from over 5,000 seniors collected over a period of time (from 1991-2002) was analyzed.  Participants were all over 65 years of age.  Seniors who were supplementing with Vitamin E and/or Vitamin C had…

Resveratrol

Resveratrol Shows Metabolic and Brain Signaling Benefits

A new animal study found that daily supplementation with Resveratrol may increase energy metabolism, cell signaling pathways and neurotransmission. 23 male adult monkeys were randomly assigned to one of three groups: A control group fed a healthy diet, A negative control group fed a diet high in sugar and fat and a group fed a…

Probiotics and brain function

Probiotics Improve Cognitive Function Among Patients With Severe Dementia

A new clinical trial with Alzheimer’s patients shows that probiotics may improve cognitive function in humans.  Prior studies showing probiotics benefits for improvements in memory and learning as well as anxiety and depression reduction have been done with mice. 60 patients with Alzheimer’s disease participated in this double blind, controlled trial.  Patients ranged in age…