We are what we eat, which means that eating healthy items as we age is crucial to maintaining cognitive performance. Now, scientists have discovered what dietary modifications and supplements could allow our brains to continue functioning well even into old age.
The researchers actually developed a nutritional supplement containing extracts from blueberries and green tea combined with vitamin D3 and amino acids, including carnosine. This supplement was then tested in a clinical trial that enrolled 105 health adults, ages 65 to 85. After two months, the researchers evaluated the effects of the formula, called NT-020. More specifically, they tested the cognitive performance of the adults.
"After two months, test results showed modest improvements in two measures of cognitive processing speed for those taking NT-020 compared to those taking placebo," said Brent Small, one of the researchers, in a news release. "Processing speed is most often affected early on in the course of cognitive aging. Successful performance in processing tasks often underlies more complex cognitive outcomes, such as memory and verbal ability."
The results are perhaps not all that surprising. One of the major ingredients of the supplement, blueberries, are rich in polyphenols. This type of antioxidant contains a natural phenol substructure. This structure can help reduce the age-related increase in oxidative stress and inflammation.
"Non-vitamin polyphenols are the most abundant modulators of oxidative stress and inflammation in our diet," said Paula C. Bickford, one of the researchers, in a news release. "NT-020 is 95 percent polyphenols."
Currently, the researchers are planning to conduct future clinical trials with longer intervention periods so that they can determine the optimal time for taking the formula. This could potentially help individuals maintain healthy cognition into the future.
Until then, though, you can help improve your health by changing your diet. Eat more blueberries and other fruits that are high in antioxidants. Green tea can also have healthy benefits, and could help improve your health.
The findings are published in the journal Rejuvenation Research.
