Older people who eat food containing high amounts of folate, which is found in many leafy green vegetables and fruits, can cut their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by more than half. This may eventually lead to a means of keeping Alzheimer's at bay. Right now, there is no preventive therapy for the neurological disease. Ten-Year Study A 10-year study showed that people who consume at least 400 micrograms of folate a day (the recommended daily allowance of the vitamin) experienced a 55 pecent lower risk of developing the disease. Folate reduces blood levels of homocysteine, a substance that can injure brain cells. Foods rich in folate include oranges, broccoli, spinach and bananas. Alzheimer's Association August 12, 2005 Dr. Mercola's Comment: I first noted the importance of eating whole foods with high amounts of folate to prevent Alzheimer's disease five years ago. This new study is yet more evidence of this. Green leafy vegetables, strawberries, liver, kidney, nuts and other folate-rich foods can all help keep the nerve cells of your brain from being damaged. The results of this study mirror the findings of one I posted last month about high amounts of folic acid slowing the cognitive decline that comes with aging. Fresh vegetables, especially dark green, leafy ones, and strawberries are some of your best natural sources of folic acid. Eating plenty of fresh, uncooked vegetablesis thenatural way toensure you are receiving an ideal daily dose of folic acid (and hundreds of other known and unknown nutrients). However, it's also important to understand that we all require different amounts of vegetables to stay healthy. Some people need to consume as much as 300 percent more vegetables than others. The amount of vegetables your body requires depends on your body's specific metabolic type. While we all need vegetables to stay healthy, your metabolic type should determine the type and amount. Related Articles: Alzheimer's Epidemic is ComingCurry Ingredient Helps Treat Alzheimer'sDrugs Fail to Slow Alzheimer's |
