|
B Vitamins—may influence cognitive function through an effect on methylation and homocysteine levels, as excess homocysteine has been associated with cognitive impairment and the B vitamins work to reduce homocysteine.[15] However, although epidemiological evidence shows an association, two studies did not find B vitamin supplementation improves cognitive function, and another that found an association was criticized.[16] In 2008 a systematic review of trials found "little evidence of a beneficial impact" from supplements on cognitive function later in life.[17] A randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 168 70 year olds with mild cognitive impairment showed that a mix of B vitamins slowed the rate of brain atrophy; the slowing was related to a decrease in homocysteine levels.[18] Choline— Higher concurrent choline intake was related to better cognitive performance.[19] It improves long-term memory in animal models.[20] ω-3 fatty acids have been linked to the maintenance of brain function. Omega-3's provide DHA, important in the function and growth of nervous tissue. It is especially important during brain development.[21] A study preformed in Norway[22] demonstrated a potential link between Omega-3 consumption during pregnancy and child intelligence test scores.[23] A cross-sectional population-based study of 1,613 subjects found an association between PUFA intake and decreased risk for impairment of cognitive function & cognitive speed.[24] Another study showed that boys with lower levels of Omega-3 had more behavior issues, including ADHD.[25] Isoflavones—may be related to cognitive function.[26] A double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed improvement in spatial working memory after administration of an isoflavone combination containing daidzein, genistein & glycitein.[27] In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of older, non-demented men & women, soy isoflavone supplementation improved performance on 6 of 11 cognitive tests, including visual-spatial memory and construction, verbal fluency and speeded dexterity; unexpectedly, the placebo group performed better on 2 tests of executive function.[28] Vitamin D—has positive effects on cardiovascular health and may have positive effects on cognitive function separately; the active form of Vitamin D seems to be involved in brain development and in adult brain function. In particular, metabolic pathways for Vitamin D in the hippocampus and cerebellum have been found. Epidemiological data show that higher Vitamin D levels (>20 ng/mL or 50nmol/L) are associated with better cognitive function, but do not seem to be associated with better memory performance.[29] Vitamin D has also been shown to be necessary in the production of dopamine [30] Vitamin C— has been shown to help reduce brain injury and also reduce the amount of Cortisol in the body. High levels of Cortisol have been linked to Alzheimer's Disease.[31][medical citation needed] Vitamin E—protects neurons from injury caused by Free Radicals.[32][medical citation needed] A 2007 survey of online databases for herbs used in traditional herbal medicine to treat cognitive decline – without any proof of safety or efficacy – found over 150 plant species, such as Ginkgo biloba.[33] |
About us|Jobs|Help|Disclaimer|Advertising services|Contact us|Sign in|Website map|Search|
GMT+8, 2015-9-11 22:14 , Processed in 0.129366 second(s), 16 queries .
