Lutein, a carotenoid, is usually associated with its benefits for ocular support. This carotenoid is commonly found in both vegetables and fruits. Research supports the role Lutein plays in the retina and its ability to decrease the risk of age related eye diseases. Currently, Lutein is beginning to be recognized as support for the brain.…
Elderly people with mild cognitive impairment saw significant improvements in both cognitive performance and reduced inflammation when supplementing with 400 mcg of Folic Acid daily for a period of 12 months. Over 150 seniors with mild cognitive impairment were randomly assigned to two groups. One group received daily Folic Acid supplementation (400 mcg) and the…
A new study has found that higher blood levels of Lutein and Zeaxanthin may be associated with improved memory, cognition and executive function. Data from this study found higher Zeaxanthin levels were associated with increased processing speeds and higher levels of both Zeaxanthin and Lutein were associated with enriched scores for many cognitive measures. Data…
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…
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…
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…
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…