Bugs Bunny’s Brain-Boosting Secret
When it comes to keeping your brain firing on all cylinders—and reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s with age—every little bit helps.
About one-fifth of folks under 75 suffer from some degree of cognitive dysfunction. About 30 percent of people over 65 suffer from Alzheimer’s.
Throw in other troubling issues like brain fog and mild cognitive impairment, and it’s clear our brains are under attack.
With that in mind, I have some ammo to add to your arsenal today that can help in the fight to protect your brain.
I’m sure you’ve heard that beta-carotene is good for your eyesight before. After all, how ELSE could carrot-munching Bugs Bunny see so well in the dark?
But a recent study revealed just how beneficial the nutrient is for your BRAIN as well.
This meta-analysis included data from 16 studies of people without mental disorders.
In seven out of 10 of the epidemiological studies included in the review, blood levels of beta carotene were associated with improved cognitive function.
In the intervention studies, long-term use of beta carotene was ALSO associated with improved cognitive function (while short-term use had no impact).
And the studies that focused on taking beta carotene in combination with other nutrients (like vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, and selenium) also found beneficial cognitive effects.
After compiling all the evidence, the researchers concluded that beta carotene likely acts hand in hand with other nutrients to maintain cognitive function. Making it a perfect choice for supporting our aging brains.
(Hm, maybe THAT’S why Bugs was so clever!)
The findings of the new study fall right in line with other research I’ve read.
In one, for example, beta carotene blood levels predicted semantic memory performance. That’s the kind of conscious long-term memory critical for grasping meaning, concepts, and understanding of things in the world.
In another, low levels of brain-supporting beta carotene were linked to decreased cognitive performance.
And yet another found that folks taking a 50 mg supplement of beta carotene every other day had improvements in verbal and cognitive memory.
Getting MORE of this vital nutrient is easy. Choose more fruits and vegetables that are orange or yellow in color, like sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, squash, carrots, pumpkin, and yellow or orange bell peppers.
Some greens provide a good amount of brain-friendly beta carotene, such as spinach, broccoli, lettuce, and collard greens.
So, go ahead and start munching on more beta-carotene-rich foods starting today.
P.S. Chomping on more beta-carotene-rich carrots is a great place to start. But don’t stop there. Try these OTHER simple hacks to boost an aging brain.
SOURCE:
Abrego-Guandique, et al., “The Effect of Beta-Carotene on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review.” Brain Sci. 2023, 13, 1468. doi. org /10.3390/brainsci13101468
Written By Dr. Richard Gerhauser, M.D.
For years he’s been the trusted doctor for celebrities, world-class athletes, and countless seniors looking to reclaim their health.
And now…for the first time ever… he’s making his medical breakthroughs available to readers all across America.
Dr. Richard Gerhauser, M.D. is one of the most pioneering and innovative minds in medicine today – and he delivers cutting-edge cures each month through his Natural Health Response newsletter.
Natural Health Response readers get full access to Dr. Gerhauser’s protocols for chronic pain… heart disease… diabetes… Alzheimer’s… and even cancer. These are the very same treatments Dr. Gerhauser recommends to his own patients at his practice in Tucson, Arizona.
In addition to being a board-certified medical doctor, Dr. Gerhauser has earned two master’s degrees and has served as a clinical professor at the University of Arizona.
And as a physician at the world-famous Canyon Ranch, Dr. Gerhauser treated celebrities from around the world who paid dearly for the type of next-generation health information he provides Natural Health Response readers each month.
View More Free Articles
Eat THIS to Reduce Your Risk of 14 Cancers
I’m a meat-and-potatoes guy. I’ll never turn down a big, juicy steak. But even more than that… I’m a fish guy. There’s not much I like more than a perfectly grilled salmon. I hope you do, too, because salmon contains two potent nutrients tied to a reduced risk of 14 types of cancer. Omega-3s are […]
The Bad Habit Robbing YEARS from Your Life
I often get eye-rolls when I stress just how essential lifestyle factors like light reducing pollution and grounding are good for health. But new research continually proves that I’ve been right all along. Today, a critical new study shows that something I’ve warned you about for YEARS is tied to a 34 percent increased risk […]
Reduce Colon Cancer Risk by 30%
More than 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer yearly. Another 35,000 will get a liver cancer diagnosis. But if you have type 2 diabetes, your risk of developing one of these skyrockets—a 47 percent increased risk of colorectal cancer, and a two to three times higher risk of liver cancer. That’s why I’m excited […]
“Dinner Plate” Danger Raises Prostate Risk
Did you know that prostate cancer is FAR more prevalent in developed parts of the world than in less developed regions? Strange right? What is it about our modern, developed society that’s attacking our male population? There are MANY answers to this question. The primary one I will focus on today is a significant environmental […]
The 5-Minute Solution to Better Blood Pressure
Are you one of the millions who battle the so-called “silent killer” hypertension? And do you have five minutes to spare daily? If so, you could be well on your way to significantly healthier blood pressure. Sound too good to be true? A new study proves it. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy If […]
“Eye-Opening” Benefits of Pistachios
Imagine if there were a daily snack that could protect your vision. Well, a recent study brings good news for the 20 million U.S. adults already battling macular degeneration—the leading cause of vision loss for those over 60. Adding a handful of pistachios to your diet might help shield your eyesight. Let’s take a “look.” […]
Get Better Blood Sugar This Holiday Season
Let’s face it. The holidays are NOT good for your waistline… or your blood sugar levels. Potlucks, family dinners, cookie exchanges, Christmas parties… you know the drill. So, if you’re one of the 98 million people on the brink of type 2 diabetes, it’s VITAL to take steps to manage your blood sugar levels as […]
Common Vitamin Is a Hidden Colon Cancer Shield
With aggressive colon cancer on the rise in younger people, I’m always on the lookout for research showing how we can all lower our risks. Over the past few months, I’ve shared studies showing that stress, oral bacteria, obesity, and circadian disruption are all tied to colon cancer. And just last week I revealed how […]
Ditch Dieting for Better Blood Sugar Control
I’ll just say this right upfront… Type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle issue. And while diet is PART of the equation, it’s not the only thing to consider when managing your blood sugar. Over the past few months, I’ve highlighted research showing that factors like your bedtime and activity levels impact diabetes risk. Today, I […]
Slash Painful Nighttime Leg Cramps
On this Veterans Day, my team and I honor and thank all who have served in our armed forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication to protecting our nation’s freedoms will never be forgotten. Not all health problems are life-threatening. There are plenty that threaten your quality of life. Nighttime leg cramps are one of them. […]