Researchers: Antioxidant in Red Wine May Protect Against Alzheimer’s Disease

An antioxidant that is naturally found in grapes may help prevent development or delay the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study.

Mount Sinai researchers have found that grape seed polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants, may prevent the production of beta amyloid in the brain, which has long been associated with Alzheimer’s development.

Dr. Giulio Pasinetti and colleagues tested the effects of grape seed extract by administering it to mice genetically determined to develop memory deficits and symptoms similar to those found in Alzheimer’s.  The results indicated that mice who were treated with the extract showed substantially reduced beta amyloid content in their brains and less memory loss.

Previous studies have indicated that increased consumption of grape-derived polyphenols may protect against cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.  That means consuming polyphenols may be useful as a preventative measure or even treatment for the disease.

Polyphenols can be found in grapes and red wine, as well as nutritional supplements.

The study was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

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