Older people who had diets rich in folate, a B vitamin found in green leafy vegetables and fruits like strawberries, reduced their chances of developing Alzheimer's disease by more than half according to a recent study.
The results of the study, led by Epidemiologist Maria Corrada of the University of California-Irvine, were published in the first ever issue of the journal 'Alzheimer's & Dementia.'
The study collected dietary data from 579 people over the age of 60 who showed no signs of Alzheimer's disease. They kept track of what they ate in a typical week and also reported to researchers what dietary supplements and vitamins they took. Folic acid is the vitamin supplement equivalent to folate.
The researchers kept track of the volunteers for 10 years after measuring the amount of folate in their diets. After the 10 year period was over, 57 of the subjects developed Alzheimer's.
The results of the study showed that those people who consumed above 400 micrograms of folate per day had a 55 percent lower chance of developing Alzheimer's disease than those who did not.
Researchers say folate reduces the level of homocysteine, a substance in the blood that if experienced over time in elevated levels, can cause brain damage.
The study leader, Dr. Corrada added, 'Although folates appear to be more beneficial than other nutrients, the primary message should be that overall healthy diets seem to have an impact on limiting Alzheimer's disease risk.'
While the study results are not conclusive, researchers agree that eating more fruits and vegetables high in folate certainly can't hurt the health of those concerned about dementia.
Additional studies in this area are expected in the near future.
