Study: Extra Folic Acid May Help Memory
(Washington, AP, 6/21/05)

Jane Durga of Wageningen University in the Netherlands, and team, gave 818 adults, aged 50 to 75, who initially had no cognitive impairment, either 800 mg of folic acid or a placebo. After three years, the folic acid group scored as well as people 5.5 years younger on memory tests and 1.9 years younger on tests of cognitive speed. Scientists speculate that folic acid may protect the brain by lessening inflammation and/or by affecting the expression of dementia-related genes.

The Alzheimer's Association offers the following tips for protecting the brain against age-related memory loss.

• Exercise your brain: Using it in new ways increases blood flow.
• Stay socially stimulated. Reduced interaction is linked to declining cognitive function.
• Exercise your body. If your arteries clog, blood flow to the brain will be slower.
• Diet is important. A heart-healthy diet, rich in folic acid, is good for the brain. (Folic acid is found in oranges, strawberries, dark-green leafy vegetables and beans)