A diet high in folic acid is known to have a number of health benefits including reducing birth defects and improving cardiovascular and heart health by reducing disease and strokes. And recent research in Holland indicates that carrying 800 micrograms every day may also protect the functioning of the mind. As the general population ages, there are increasing concerns about Alzheimer’s and other causes of memory and cognitive decline. Certainly very good brain function is something that everybody wants and demands for quality of life.
The results of the research suggested that subjects aged 50-75, who were given a folic acid supplement performed better on memory tests and cognitive speed tests. They showed scoring results nearly two years younger than those who had taken a placebo or sugar pill. Foliate is regarded as necessary in coordinating many of the elements of the nervous system such as the neurotransmitters, myelin and phosphatidycholine. Neurotransmitters, chemicals in your brain, play a role in regulating mood and transmitting signals. Myelin is a white fatty sheath that lines nerve pathways and protects the nerves. Phosphatidycholine is a molecule that is vital for proper bodily function. Foliate works to protect the mind is not yet apparent, but some research suggests that it lowers inflammation. Homocysteine is a natural by-product of body function, but if it reaches high levels it can be detrimental to cells.
These amounts increase when you are deficient in folic acid or vitamin B-12. It works in breaking down Homocysteine. This is common in older people and has been observed in anyone suffering from depression. Some researchers suggest that the test mental age plays a role in positively affecting dementia-related genes. This might be of special interest to people who have a family history. The continuous physical and mental activities are what keeps Mary youthful at her age also helps train her memory, which makes it stronger every day. The act of engaging the community provides many old folks a feeling of belonging and self-worth and helps them remain young both emotionally and physically.
If you consume high foliate foods such as legumes, citrus fruits, dark leafy Green vegetables and berries, your health will benefit. Some find it difficult to consume enough of these foods to get the required 800 micrograms. Also elderly individuals frequently have trouble metabolizing B vitamins, as do many suffering from depression. And so supplementing may be necessary. Slowing mental aging along with treating depression is in everybody’s best interests. We often forget that fantastic nutrition provides the building blocks of mobile health and decent brain functioning. A fantastic source of folic acid benefits you as you get older.
