Vegetable consumption shown to improve memory problems

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Vegetables, but not fruit, can help with memory problems among older people, according to a new study.
Many studies have shown the value of a high intake of fruit and vegetables upon health. In a new study, researchers at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago reveal the impact of these dietary components on memory.

They studied 3,718 residents aged 65 or more who completed a dietary questionnaire and received at least two memory tests over a six year period. Compared to those consuming less than one serving of vegetables a day, those eating at least 2.8 servings daily showed less memory decline. The older the person, the more marked this effect was. But fruit consumption seemed to have no impact on memory. The researchers wonder whether it is vitamin E, whose levels are higher in vegetables than in fruit, which is responsible for this benefit. It may also be that fats, contained in salad dressings, that may be consumed with vegetables, allow more vitamin E absorption. Further research is needed to see why fruit consumption does not appear to benefit cognitive performance.

Source
Neurology 24th October 2006

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