Compound in Celery and Peppers Reduces Age-Related Memory Problems
Oct 18, 2010 – A new study examining the effects of dietary luteolin in a mouse model of aging appears in the Journal of Nutrition. Luteolin (LOOT-ee-oh-lin) is found in many plants, including celery, peppers, and carrots.
Previous research has shown that luteolin has anti-inflammatory effects in the body. However, this is the first study to suggest that luteolin improves cognitive health by acting directly to reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the brain. They believe these inflammatory chemicals contribute to cognitive aging and act as a predisposing factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Inflammation in the brain also appears to be a key contributor to age-related memory problems.
The researchers believe that dietary luteolin accesses the brain and reduces the activation of the cells that produce the inflammatory chemicals. This anti-inflammatory effect has a positive effect on working memory. This data suggests that consuming a healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, has the potential to reduce age-associated inflammation in the brain, which can result in better cognitive health.
Fruits and vegetables can be great sources of key nutrients which may play a role in reducing the risk of certain diseases. Eating a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables (including fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice) is an easy and positive step in helping to lead a healthy life. To confirm a commitment to eat more delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables, take America’s More Matters Pledge: Fruits & Veggies…Today and Every Day!
Previous research has shown that luteolin has anti-inflammatory effects in the body. However, this is the first study to suggest that luteolin improves cognitive health by acting directly to reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the brain. They believe these inflammatory chemicals contribute to cognitive aging and act as a predisposing factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Inflammation in the brain also appears to be a key contributor to age-related memory problems.
The researchers believe that dietary luteolin accesses the brain and reduces the activation of the cells that produce the inflammatory chemicals. This anti-inflammatory effect has a positive effect on working memory. This data suggests that consuming a healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, has the potential to reduce age-associated inflammation in the brain, which can result in better cognitive health.
Fruits and vegetables can be great sources of key nutrients which may play a role in reducing the risk of certain diseases. Eating a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables (including fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice) is an easy and positive step in helping to lead a healthy life. To confirm a commitment to eat more delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables, take America’s More Matters Pledge: Fruits & Veggies…Today and Every Day!
