The daily choices we make regarding food choice can have long term benefits for brain function. Findings released by the American Academy of Neurology indicate that among study participants averaging age 87, those who had diets richer in omega 3 fatty acids and in vitamins B, C, D, E performed better on mental thinking tests than those whose nutritional biomarkers indicated lower consumption. Additionally, those who reported consuming higher levels of trans fats (commonly found in fast foods and packaged products) showed more brain shrinkage than those eating less trans fats.
The results of this research, conducted by Gene Bowman, ND, MPH, of Oregon Health & Science University, can be accessed at http://www.neurology.org/content/early/2011/12/28/WNL.0b013e3182436598.abstract?sid=f3d59111-d4ce-4b42-827f-02cced9fbccd. Additionally, a description of the findings and interviews with the lead author is available at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/29/brain-food-nutrients-sharp-vitamins_n_1173876.html.