Alzheimer’s Disease risk is linked to many factors—genetics, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, sleep health, and social health. Along with the aforementioned factors, one other should not be ignored—diet.
The new study, out of Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, looked at how certain aspects of diet interacted with the brain health of people with Alzheimer's. The research team found that carotenoids—a micronutrient in the brain—were found in lower amounts among those with an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis compared to those without the disease.
“Carotenoids can help minimize the damage caused by normal brain metabolism, and a diet rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene (as well as an overall healthy diet) may help keep our brain fit and functioning well.
Examples of carotenoids evaluated in this study include beta-carotene (found in carrots, cantaloupe, spinach, and sweet potatoes) and lutein (found in egg yolks, watercress, and pistachios). Just a thought.