Orange juice helps improve memory in the elderly

Regular consumption of orange juice may help improve cognitive function in older adults.

That is the result of a new study by British scientists, recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (USA).

Illustration photo.

"The world's population is aging rapidly. It is estimated that the number of people aged 60 and over could triple by 2100. That is the main reason why we are motivated to explore and find a simple and effective method to improve cognitive function in old age," said the researchers.

In the study, a team of scientists from the University of Reading (UK) monitored 37 healthy adults (average age 67) who consumed 500 ml of orange juice daily for eight weeks. And compared it with a control group that consumed a different, controlled drink.

At the beginning and end of the study, participants had their cognitive functions measured, including memory, reaction time, and verbal skills. The results showed that participants who regularly drank orange juice for eight weeks had an 8% increase in cognitive function compared to the control group, who consumed a control beverage.

The researchers said their findings were significant and added to growing evidence that flavonoid-rich foods could play a key role in helping to reverse cognitive decline in old age.

Previous studies have also shown that orange juice is a rich source of flavonoid antioxidants, which improve memory by activating signals in the hippocampus - a part of the brain involved in learning and memory.

"Making simple changes to your daily diet, such as eating more flavonoid-rich fruits and vegetables, could have significant benefits for brain health in older adults," said study co-author Daniel Lamport.

According to Health and Life