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Prevent Alzheimer's Disease Drink Juice

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: September 2, 2006

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Research Finds A 76% Risk Reduction For Alzheimer's

Drinking fruit and vegetable juices may dramatically cut the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to research from Dr Qi Dai and his team at the Vanderbilt University. Their research involved 1,985 people over 10 years. They found that people who drank fruit and vegetable juice more than three times a week cut their risk of Alzheimer's by 76% against those who drank it less than once a week.

The study, published September 2006 in the American Journal of Medicine, involved Japanese-Americans over 65 years. The Japanese have low rates of Alzheimer's except when they reside in America when the incidence of the disease increases.

Alzheimer's disease is thought to be linked with beta-amyloid protein accumulation in the brain. The researchers believe that polyphenols, found in large amounts in fruit and vegetables, might well disrupt these processes. The antioxidants may provide protection against Alzheimer's disease by neutralizing the effects of compounds called free radicals.

Other Findings from this Long Term Study of Fruit and Vegetable Juice Intake

  • Currently the researchers do not know if certain types of vegetable or fruit juices may be more effective.

  • The protective benefits of juice also appeared to be beneficial to people who had a genetic marker apolipoprotein E linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.

  • The research found no relationship between the intake of vitamins C and E, and beta carotene to reduce Alzheimer's disease risk.
  • Alzheimer's Prevention and Juice Amounts
    This research shows that the mounting evidence that we can make dietary and lifestyle changes that positively impact on out risk factors for Alzheimer's is great news. It means we can take preventative measures. The research from Dr Qi Dai and his team indicates that people who consume one 8-ounce glass of juice at least three times a week have a four times times lower risk for Alzheimer's disease. Drinking fruit or vegetable juice once or twice a week shows a 16% lower risk. It makes it worth hitting the supermarket to stock up.

    Article Source: Dai, Q. The American Journal of Medicine, September 2006; vol 119: pp 751-759.

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