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Grape juice can reduce memory loss, study suggests
Reported December 09, 2009
Scientists from the University of Cincinnati's psychiatry department carried
out a study which involved 12 people with early memory loss drinking pure
100 per cent Concord grape juice for 12 weeks.
During the trial participants were split into two groups, one which drank
juice and one which didn't.
Both groups' memories were regularly tested in the form of learning lists
and items placed in a certain order.
The results showed an improvement the longer the trial went on in the half
of the group who were drinking the juice, which is made from grapes grown in
the Concord region of New Hampshire, USA.
Experts believe this proves the brain-boosting powers of antioxidants
contained in the skin and juice of the grapes.
Dr Robert Krikorian of the university presented the results of his study at
the International Polyphenols and Health conference in Harrogate, Yorks, on
Tuesday.
He said: ''While there were no significant differences between the groups at
baseline, following the treatment, those drinking Concord grape juice
demonstrated a significant improvement in list learning.
''And trends suggested improved short-term memory retention and spatial,
non-verbal memory.
''The results involving Concord grape juice are very encouraging and
certainly warrant an additional study.
''A simple, easy-to-incorporate dietary intervention that could improve or
protect memory function, such as drinking Concord grape juice, may be
beneficial for the ageing population.''
The study gives further weight to the suggestion that the consumption of
antioxidant-rich foods and beverages, such as fruits and vegetables, and
their 100 per cent juices may help preserve cognitive function and slow or
reverse memory decline in certain populations.
Dr Krikorian lead the study, which was carried out earlier this year, as
part of ongoing research into the link between fruit and vegetables and the
prevention of mental decline.
His trial involved a dozen older adults between the ages of 75 and 80
already suffering from early memory loss.
Each participant drank 100 per cent Concord grape juice or a placebo for
almost three months, during which time they were followed for measures of
memory function including both verbal and non-verbal tasks.
A 2006 US study conducted at Vanderbilt University revealed drinking fruit
and vegetable juices frequently could significantly cut the risk of
developing Alzheimer's disease.
US researchers followed almost 2,000 people for up to 10 years – providing a
powerful set of results.
They found the risk was 76 per cent lower for those who drank juice more
than three times a week, compared with those who drank it less than
once-a-week.
Alzheimer's is linked to the accumulation of clumps of beta-amyloid protein
in the brain.
There is a suggestion this process may be controlled by the chemical
hydrogen peroxide.
Source : Telegraph Media Group Limited |
