The role of Vitamin C in brain health
According to Dr. Sachin Adukia, a neurologist at Dr. LH Hiranandani of Mumbai, India, vitamin C is an antioxidant that is important in protecting brain tissue, a factor that reduces the incidence of diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's. This essential nutrient helps fight oxidative stress , a major contributor to neurodegenerative diseases.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cell damage. The brain is especially vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Dr. Adukia adds: "Vitamin C provides nerve cells with protection from any damage, helping to enhance their function as part of cognition. By neutralizing free radicals, Vitamin C helps protect brain cells, thereby supporting cognitive functions and potentially slowing the aging process.
Additionally, vitamin C's ability to reduce inflammation is important in preventing neurodegenerative diseases. This nutrient helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are factors in neurodegenerative diseases. Chronic inflammation in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, and by limiting this inflammation, vitamin C may provide protective benefits.
Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that older adults with adequate amounts of vitamin C performed better on cognitive tests than those with lower amounts. Therefore, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin C may contribute to improved brain health and reduced risk of dementia.
Food sources of vitamin C
Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, berries and green leafy vegetables, which should be consumed regularly to improve brain function and fight the aging process.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C also plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are essential for brain function. This multifaceted approach makes vitamin C an essential component of a brain-healthy diet.
