More than 750,000 adults suffer from dementia in the U.K. alone, the Alzheimer's Association reports. Risk factors for poor cognitive function in the elderly include family history, alcohol use, hypertension and elevated blood cholesterol. Consuming a healthy diet is important for overall health and may help reduce cognitive decline in the elderly. Vegetables are especially nutrient-rich foods that have brain-boosting benefits.
Cognitive Decline
According to MayoClinic.com, cognitive decline is a stage of brain functioning that's common in older people. Cognitive decline often precedes dementia and other serious cognitive and memory issues such as Alzheimer's disease. Cognitive decline is the result of plaque formation on brain cells and reduced blood flow to the brain caused by cardiovascular disease. Age is an important risk factor for cognitive decline. However, certain lifestyle factors may also play a role -- including intake of vegetables.
Evidence
A review paper by a team of scientists from Tufts University, published in the May 2002 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging," notes that fresh fruits and vegetables have been associated with better cognition and lower rates of dementia in the elderly. A research study published in the May 2005 issue of "Annals of Neurology" echoed the Tufts team's findings, demonstrating a significant association between vegetable consumption and better cognitive functioning in a group of more than 13,000 women. The team noted that green leafy vegetables were especially protective against cognitive decline.
How Vegetables Work
"The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging" paper notes that antioxidants in vegetables are largely responsible for their ability to stave off cognitive decline in the elderly. Free radicals are naturally occurring compounds that can damage healthy brain tissue. By eating antioxidant-rich vegetables -- high in antioxidants such as vitamin C and anthocyanins -- you can protect your precious brain cells from harm.
Considerations
Vegetables are just one part of a lifestyle that preserves cognitive functioning. Staying physically active, socializing regularly and consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids are also important ways to preserve brain function. If you're having issues with cognition, they could be a sign of a serious health problem. Talk to your doctor if you notice your cognition fading.
References
- Alzheimer's Association: Statistics
- MayoClinic.com: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
- "The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging"; Effects of Fruits and Vegetables on Levels of Vitamins E and C in the Brain and Their Association With Cognitive Performance; A. Martin et al.; May 2002
- "Annals of Neurology"; Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Cognitive Decline in Aging Women; J. Kang et al.; April 2005
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