HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

Approximately 50 million individuals worldwide grapple with Alzheimer's, a complex neurodegenerative ailment that impairs memory and cognitive function, ultimately leading to debilitation and fatality. The condition's causes remain elusive, with genetics being one of the few established factors.

Carotenoids: The Orange Pigments in Fruits and Vegetables

For some time, numerous scientists have been investigating the potential link between lifelong dietary habits and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In line with this inquiry, a recently published study in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease suggests that a high intake of specific micronutrients found in select fruits and vegetables may offer protection against this debilitating ailment.

The research builds upon previous findings that indicated lower self-reported consumption of carotenoids—red and orange pigments found in various vegetables, including tomatoes, carrots, and peppers—in Alzheimer's patients compared to their disease-free counterparts. To validate this hypothesis, the study measured carotenoid levels in brain tissue samples donated by both Alzheimer's patients and those without the condition.

The findings confirmed that individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's indeed had significantly lower carotenoid levels in their brains compared to those without the diagnosis.

“This study, for the first time, demonstrates deficits in important dietary antioxidants in Alzheimer’s brains. These results are consistent with large population studies that found risk for Alzheimer’s disease was significantly lower in those who ate diets rich in carotenoids, or had high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in their blood, or accumulated in their retina as macular pigment,” said C. Kathleen Dorey, professor in the Department of Basic Science Education at the medical school. “Not only that, but we believe eating carotenoid-rich diets will help keep brains in top condition at all ages.”

A Healthy Diet Component

The researchers note that these observations align with the well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties associated with carotenoids. Both of these processes are known to play pivotal roles in the development of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Furthermore, maintaining an adequate supply of carotenoids is crucial for a healthy diet. Incorporating these essential nutrients into one's daily routine can be achieved by consuming vegetables such as tomatoes, watercress, pumpkin, carrots, and peppers, as well as fruits like watermelon, kiwi, and guava. Additionally, nuts such as sunflower seeds, pistachios, and peanuts offer another source of these beneficial carotenoids.

Source

https://www.j-alz.com/content/eat-your-vegetables-protect-your-brain
https://www.20minutos.es/salud/nutricion/una-dieta-rica-frutas-verduras-rojas-puede-ayudar-reducir-riesgo-alzheimer-segun-un-estudio-5168029/