Which nutrients slow down the aging process of the brain?

A new study has shown a link between the rate of brain aging and the nutrients in our diets.

Anti-aging diet

Researchers from the University of Illinois and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln mapped brain scans based on the nutritional intake of 100 volunteers aged 65-75. They then sought to find a link between certain diets and slower brain aging.

Scientists have identified two distinct types of brain aging. The slower rate of aging is associated with nutrient absorption similar to that from the Mediterranean diet – which has been shown to be one of the best diets for the body in previous studies.

"We studied specific nutritional biomarkers, such as fatty acid composition, which are known in nutritional science to potentially offer health benefits," said neuroscientist Aron Barbey, from the University of Illinois.

"This is consistent with extensive research in the field, demonstrating the positive health effects of the Mediterranean diet," he added.

Importantly, the scientists didn't rely on study participants reporting their diets. Instead, they analyzed blood samples to look for nutritional biomarkers. This provides solid scientific evidence of what these older adults were eating and drinking.

Fatty acids, such as those found in fish and olive oil, and antioxidants like vitamin E, found in spinach and almonds, are among the beneficial biomarkers that have been identified, as are carotenoids—plant pigments found in carrots and pumpkins that have previously been found to help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.

Another beneficial biomarker associated with slower aging is choline, which is found in high amounts in egg yolks, organ meats, and raw soybeans.

Nutrition plays a crucial role.

Researchers assessed brain aging through both MRI scans and cognitive evaluations. This combined approach provided a realistic picture of neural plasticity, along with more fine-tuned details about neuronal configurations.

"The research allowed us to build a deeper understanding of the relationship between these factors," Barbey said. "We simultaneously examined the structure, function, and metabolism of the brain, demonstrating a direct link between brain characteristics and cognitive ability."

There is growing evidence suggesting that nutrition plays a crucial role in brain aging. Each new study provides deeper insight into how the brain is so closely connected to all other parts and functions of the body. This research, however, only records the events in a timely manner and is not comprehensive enough to prove cause and effect.

However, a 2023 study reached a similar conclusion. Following participants for 12 years, it also found a link between a Mediterranean diet (which includes eating more fish – white, oily fish, less red meat, and more fruits and vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains) and lower levels of cognitive decline.

Next, the research team wants to examine clinical trials over a significant period of time to see how diet and nutrition might affect brain aging. It's possible that simple dietary adjustments could help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

"The current study identifies specific nutritional biomarker patterns that are promising and favorably associated with measures of cognitive performance and brain health," Barbey explains. The study was published in the journal npj Aging .

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/chat-dinh-duong-nao-lam-cham-qua-trinh-lao-hoa-nao-20240524140952718.htm