Risk of Alzheimer's Reduced by Antioxidants

Antioxidants are delightful little things that are present in nature, especially in food. They combat free radicals, that in turn damage cells. They have been identified as being beneficial for anti aging, against certain forms of cancer as well as brain cell related illnesses.

Fresh fruit is a great source of antioxidants, and amongst the top contenders for being rich in antioxidants are berries.

There are different kinds of berries, such as black and red berries, blue berries and strawberries. Just as a matter of principle you should include these in your diet - the fresher the better.

Blackcurrants are a type of berry. They are thought to be able to reduce the risk of progression of Alzheimer's.

Blackcurrants and Alzheimer's.

Scientists from the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI) announced in a briefing paper that they are working on a project that is trying to identify bio active compounds in blackcurrants thought to be capable of reducing the risk of progression of Alzheimer's disease.

The information goes on to state that the compounds are extracted from the waste produced when blackcurrants are processed and are believed to protect and may help in the treatment of dementia.

The project these scientists are working on is looking to find cost-effective ways turning the black currant compounds into functional food ingredients.

Other Research.

There have been quite a few other researches that indicate that a high dietary intake of vitamin C and vitamin E may lower the risk of Alzheimer disease.

These researches have made allowances for a series of variables, such as age, sex, alcohol intake, education, smoking habits, and others, but do state that vitamin C and E may lower the risk.

The news from the SCRI is very motivating, as they are stating that the bio active compounds in black currants may (there is always a "may") reduce the risk of "progression". In other words once the illness has struck. Obviously a lot more research has to take place, but it sure sounds good.

The other researches refer to a reduction in the risk of getting Alzheimer's, in other words it is preventive.

So, apart from not smoking, reducing your alcohol intake, you should consume more fresh fruit.

In the first place you now have preliminary information regarding black currants as well as vitamin C and E.

Vitamin C and E Rich Food

Some fruits that are Vitamin C rich are:

• Oranges
• Grapefruit (especially pink)
• Papaya
• Kiwi Fruit (green and yellow)
• Black Currants * (surprised?)
• Guava, tropical
• Mangoes

And for Vitamin E rich food, you have:

• Avocados
• Tomatoes
• Sweet potatoes
• Spinach
• Brussels sprouts
• Blackberries
• Mangoes
• Salmon
• Nuts

You can't go wrong with a balanced diet and here you have enough fruit and vegetable ingredients to enjoy one.

Philip Robinson writes on many subjects including natural health and eco-living. In his blog Antioxidant Zone you will find much more information on antioxidants and how they help us maintain our health. To learn more visit: http://antioxidantzone.com and http://natural-living-tips.com