Antioxidants May Improve Cognition

Antioxidants are substances, such as vitamins and minerals, that help protect and repair cells against free radicals, which are responsible for cell damage or cell death.  This damage may play a role in cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases and conditions.  Antioxidants are found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, poultry, fish, and some meats.  Common antioxidants are beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Experts say that a diet high in antioxidants can help keep our immune system strong and ward off infection. A new study presented at the World Congress of Neurology shows that antioxidants may now also play a role in improving cognition.  The study showed an association between antioxidants and improved visuopractical skills and improved executive function. Visuopractical skills are defined as any ability or skill that allows what is seen to be understood and then acted upon.  Executive function is the cognitive process that manages other cognitive processes, such as planning, memory, problem, solving, and verbal reasoning.

Just another reason to eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables!!!