Mushrooms can "reduce the risk of mild brain decline"

[ad_1]

Research in Singapore suggests eating mushrooms more than twice a week could prevent memory and language problems for over 60s.

The study revealed that a unique antioxidant found in fungi could have a protective effect on the brain.

The study found that the more people ate mushrooms, the better their results.

But the researchers said that it was not possible to prove a direct link between fungi and brain function.

The study from the National University of Singapore focused on 663 Chinese adults over the age of 60, whose diet and lifestyle were followed from 2011 to 2017.

During the six-year study, researchers found that mushroom consumption reduced the risk of mild cognitive impairment, so that about nine out of 100 people who ate more than two servings a week were diagnosed compared to 19 out of 100 among those who ate. less than a portion.

& # 39; Encouraging & # 39;

A mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can make people forgetful, affect their memory and cause language problems, attention and location of objects in spaces – but changes can be subtle.

This is not serious enough to be defined as dementia.

Study participants were asked about the frequency with which they ate six types of mushrooms: oyster, shiitake, white button, dried, golden and canned.

Mushroom consumers performed better on brain tests and showed faster treatment speed – which was especially noticeable for those who ate more than two servings a week, or more than 300 g (10.5 oz).

"This correlation is surprising and encouraging," said Assistant Professor Lei Feng, the senior author of the study, Department of Psychological Medicine at the university.

"It seems that only one commonly available ingredient could have a dramatic effect on cognitive decline.

"But we're talking about a combination of many factors – tea, green leafy vegetables, nuts and fish are also beneficial."

The researchers point out that mushrooms are one of the richest dietary sources of ergothionein – an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that man can not manufacture himself.

Mushrooms also contain other important nutrients and minerals such as vitamin D, selenium and spermidine, which protect neurons from damage.

But there is still a long way to go before we can prove a direct link.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors

The researchers acknowledged that this study was based on self-reported information on the consumption of mushrooms and other dietary factors, which may not be accurate.

Dr. James Pickett, head of research at the Alzheimer Society, said, "Many factors contribute to the development of dementia and it is estimated that nearly one-third of cases could be prevented by lifestyle changes. , including diet.

"Dementia is one of the top 10 causes of death, but people can take steps to reduce their risk, so it's important to base our advice on consistent evidence based on many studies and not let go by the results of a single study.

"Therefore, even if a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, including mushrooms, is a good starting point, we advise you to also reduce your sugar and salt consumption, to do physical activity, drink in moderation and avoid smoking. "

The study is published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.

The University of Cambridge is conducting a brief study on this story. Press here To take part.

By clicking on the link above to access the survey, you will be redirected to a site controlled by the University of Cambridge. Please note that the BBC is not the controller of the personal data you enter in the survey. When you complete the survey, you are subject to the terms, conditions and privacy policy of the University of Cambridge and any third party hosting the survey.

[ad_2]

Source link