According to new research, eating more berries and drinking tea may help you stay mentally sharp longer.
A case study of more than 900 adults found that foods featuring antioxidant flavonoids could offer brain benefits to older adults. Flavonoids are found in foods and drinks like berries, leafy green vegetables, tea, wine, and more.
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The study, which was recently published in Neurology, found that people who ate a daily serving of leafy green vegetables slowed their cognitive decline by roughly 32 percent, compared to those who did not eat any flavonoid-rich foods.
Flavonoids act as both antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. They may destroy free radicals and prevent cell damage. And the benefits are not just for the brain, either. These compounds can prevent cell damage in other organs like the brain, heart and vascular system, kidney, liver, etc.
The research team collected data on 961 adults, with an average age of 81, who did not have dementia. Over an average of seven years, participants completed questionnaires about their diet and took cognitive and memory tests.
Participants’ ability to remember lists of words and recall numbers and put them in order was tested.
The results showed a close association between higher flavanol intake and slower cognitive decline. It should be noted that the association was observational and does not prove that eating these foods improves cognition or delays memory and thinking trouble.
People who ate the most flavanols – about 15 milligrams (mg) per day (the equivalent of about 1 cup of dark leafy greens) – had slower memory decline than those who ate the least – about 5 mg.
The foods that seemed to contribute most to slowing brain aging were:
- Kale
- Beans
- Tea
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Apples
- Tea
- Wine
- Pears
- Olive oil
- Tomato sauce
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
