Brain Food

Posted by Jerry Lopper Jan 29, 2008

Brain Food

A research update in the January&February issue of AARP indicates that eating foods rich in carotenoids may help keep your brain sharp. Carotenoids are the natural fat-soluble pigments which give plants their color.

A French study of people in their 70s found that those with the lowest scores on cognitive (thinking) tests also had the lowest levels of zeaxanthin and lycopene. Zeaxanthin is the carotenoid in dark-green leafy vegatables and yellow and orange fruits and vegatables. Lycopene is found in tomatoes and watermelon.

Other research demonstrates that mind exercises are also positive factors in preserving mental acuity. So, while you're doing those crossword puzzles, take to heart your mother's reminder to "eat your colors" and snack on carrots, tomatoes,and green-leafy vegetables.