Dementia is a condition on the rise in America and elsewhere, but it appears from a new study the risk can be lessened with the consumption of flavanoid-rich foods. Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have found people who consume foods high in flavanoids like berries, tea, red wine and dark chocolate could reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 28 percent.
Recent data shows nearly 10 percent of the population over the age of 65 have some level of dementia, which is brain disorder that affects cognitive function. It manifests itself with diminished thinking, reasoning and remembering skills that affect daily life.
Age and genetics are believed to be key contributors to the development of dementia, but studies show risk factors such as diet can aid in prevention. Flavanoids are a compound found in plant-based foods responsible for a wide array of health benefits. They have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and have been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
"The worldwide prevalence of dementia continues to increase rapidly," professor Aedín Cassidy said. "In this population-based cohort study, we analyzed dietary data from over 120,000 adults aged between 40 and 70 years from the UK Biobank.
"Our findings show that consuming six additional servings of flavonoid-rich foods per day, in particular berries, tea and red wine, was associated with a 28% lower risk of dementia. The findings were most noticeable in individuals with a high genetic risk as well as those with symptoms of depression."
"These results provide a clear public health message as they suggest that a simple measure such as increasing daily consumption of flavonoid-rich foods may lower dementia risk, especially in populations at high risk," said study author Amy Jennings. "Currently, there is no effective treatment for the disease, so preventive interventions to improve health and quality of life, and reduce social and economic costs, should continue to be a major public health priority."