Apple

clip_image002We all know an apple a day can keep the doctor away. But did you know it can also keep a neurologist, neuropsychologist and a therapist away as well? A good source of fiber and Vitamin C, apples have been found to be an excellent food for brain health.

Research conducted at the University of Massachusetts in 2009 and 2010 found that apples provide enough antioxidants to raise the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and attention. Levels of this brain chemical tend to decline with age. Adding apples to a diet can help reverse the signs of memory impairment that can be associated with getting older.

The study also supports a growing body of research that apples and apple juice can improve symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Participants in the study had moderate to severe Alzheimer’s and were served two 4-ounce servings of apple juice daily for one month. These participants showed significant improvements in anxiety, apathy, agitation, depression and delusion. They also showed improvement in cognitive tasks and were able to more successfully complete everyday tasks around the house. Finally, they also saw improvement in memory as well.

Other research has shown that apples can help suppress the expression of harmful genes that are active during the aging process and promote early onset Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, there is evidence that apples can reduce the chance that nerve cells become inflamed which is a common occurrence during the aging process and is associated with a decline in cognitive performance.

Vitamin C is also associated with improving depressive symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, cloudy thinking and poor concentration. It is also beneficial for repairing the adrenal glands which become overworked during times of high stress.

What are your favorite ways to eat apples?

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