WITH 152.8 million people estimated to have dementia by 2050, it’s vital people do what they can to prevent cognitive impairment.
And eating plenty of foods from a specific food group could be part of that, say researchers.
Dietary choices can influence the risk of developing .
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, like those found in a , is generally associated with a reduced dementia risk.
While diets high in and certain types of meat may increase a person’s likelihood of developing the disease.
But now a new study has suggested specifically boosting copper in the diet could support sharper thinking in later life.
Copper is vital for several physiological functions within the human body.
It’s essential for energy production, connective tissue formation, and maintaining healthy blood vessels, nerves, and the immune system.
But until now, the relationship between cognition and copper remains poorly understood.
The study published in Scientific Reports involved 2,420 participants with a mean age of 69.3 years and a BMI of 29.2.
Dietary copper intake was positively associated with cognitive test scores.
And test scores increased with an increase in copper intake.
These associations remained significant after adjusting for various covariates, such as age, gender, race-ethnicity, status, status, , and cardiovascular disease history.
Copper’s potential brain benefits may stem from its role in making acetylcholine - a key neurotransmitter for learning and memory.
However, the researchers noted further analyses would need to be carried out to corroborate these findings.
Find out the most affordable sources of dietary copper below...
Other studies have suggested more potential benefits of copper, like improved cardiovascular health and bone density.
Copper is involved in the function of enzymes that help reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Some studies suggest higher dietary copper intake may be associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease.
But other studies have found mixed results.
And a 2015 study found post- women with low bone density had low copper levels, and that copper supplementation might be beneficial.
