Researchers at a leading American university reported that foods rich in flavonols can support longer-lasting memory. The findings are shared through a publication in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
In the study, over one thousand older adults were enrolled and split into two groups. For three years, investigators tracked cognitive health while the first group received a placebo daily. The second group consumed a daily supplement equivalent to 500 milliliters of a flavonol-rich formulation.
By the end of the study period, the second group showed a memory improvement of about sixteen percent compared with the baseline. Flavonols, a subset of flavonoids found in plant foods, appear to influence enzymes that support brain function, which can translate into better memory performance. Common sources include apples, sea buckthorn, onions, tea, dark chocolate, and red wine.
The authors describe the study as a beginning of a broader discussion about how memory is supported by nutrition. The results suggest that a diverse range of nutrients plays a role in strengthening brain health over time. This line of inquiry encourages continued research into how diet can support cognitive resilience in aging populations.
Experts emphasize that memory is influenced by a constellation of factors. This research highlights the potential for everyday dietary choices to contribute meaningfully to cognitive performance and long-term brain health. The findings invite clinicians and researchers to explore practical dietary patterns that individuals can adopt as part of a comprehensive approach to aging well.
longstanding questions about memory and nutrition continue to evolve as science advances.
Cited from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and reported by Columbia University.