Extra Virgin Olive Oil Preserves Memory and Protects Brain Against Alzheimer's

Researchers show that the consumption of extra-virgin olive oilprotects memory and learning ability and reduces the formation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain -- classic markers of Alzheimer's disease.The Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-based foods, is associated with a variety of health benefits, including a lower incidence of dementia.Researchers at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University (LKSOM) have identified a specific ingredient that protects against cognitive decline:extra-virgin olive oil, a major component of the Mediterranean diet.Learn More -What is a Mediterranean Diet?Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading RoomEmail:The Temple team identified the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of extra-virgin olive oil."We found thatolive oil reduces brain inflammation but most importantly activates a process known as autophagy." Autophagy is the process by which cells break down and clear out intracellular debris and toxins, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain.Learn More - MIND Diet Reduces Risk of Alzheimer ’s Disease"Brain cells from mice fed diets enriched with extra-virgin olive oil had higher levels of autophagy and reduced levels of amyloid plaques and phosphorylated tau," Dr. Pratic ò said.The latter substance, phosphorylated tau, is responsible for neurofibrillary tangles,which are suspected of contributing to the nerve cell dysfunction in the brain that is responsible for Alzheimer's memory ...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Tags: Alzheimer's disease alzheimer's prevention alzheimer's risk brain health lifestyle memory care olive oil Source Type: blogs