Flavonoids Show Evidence of Reducing Beta Amyloid in the Brain

Here's another reason to eat your fruits and veggies. Researchers from the University of South Florida and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that certain plant molecules reduced the amount of beta amyloid in the brains of mice genetically programmed to develop Alzheimer's. Beta amyloid buildup is found in the brains of people with the disease.

The molecules -- called flavonoids -- also targeted a protein called presenilin-1, which has been associated with genetic factors causing the disease. Flavonoids are found in fruits and vegetables with colorful skins (e.g., citrus fruits). Flavonoid supplements are also available, but like most nutrients, we benefit more from them when they come directly from food.

Keep in mind that the study did not test the effectiveness of flavonoids for reducing beta amyloid in humans. As always, more research is needed to verify this theory. Still, eating fruits and veggies is always a good thing, so why not add a few more servings to your daily diet? For more information, see Can Diet and Nutrition Reduce my Risk for Alzheimer's?

Photo © Pam Stephan