Fruits & Veggies Boost Cognition in Elderly

According to a recent study, a diet filled with fruits and vegetables is good brain food for seniors. The study was coordinated by the University of Oslo, Norway. The objective of the research was to examine the relationship between significant levels of different plant foods and cognitive performance in elderly individuals. The research group consisted of just over 2,000 people who completed a battery of test and responded to a series of food frequency surveys in order to assess their food intake habits.

The results were significant. What the researchers found is that participants who were in the upper 10th percentile in-taking fruits, vegetables, grains and mushrooms achieved significantly higher scores on the cognitive tests than those with very low to no intake of the prescribed foods. The strongest associations between prescribed foods and cognition were found in combinations of vegetables and fruits. While associations for potatoes and grains appeared to plateau and for mushrooms, associations were more linear. The most pronounced positive cognitive associations were seen for carrots, cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruits and high-fiber bread; the only negative cognitive association was seen with increased intake of white bread.

Of course this is only one study. But, we feel that the findings are enlightening. The relationship between nutrition and sustained cognitive vitality among our aging populations is an area of intense interest and deserves more attention. We will continue to look for information on this topic.


To your good health,

The Team at Health U Deserve