What Are the Benefits of Antioxidants on the Brain?

The brain needs the protection of antioxidants.

Many fear the decline in cognitive functioning that sometimes occurs as a result of aging. Fortunately, research now shows that antioxidants found in berries, broccoli, tomatoes, red grapes, garlic, spinach, tea, carrots and many other foods can help protect the brain from mental decline.

Oxygen

Oxygen is one of the most important elements consumed by the human body. The brain needs more oxygen than the rest of the body.

Damage

While beneficial, oxygen causes oxidative stress, which may erode the brain over time. Also, many of the chemicals that the brain produces have the ability to damage the brain during a lifetime.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are essentially molecules that bind more quickly to the free radicals (unstable, reactive atoms) than do the cells found in the brain. These antioxidants counteract the free radicals, reducing the amount of damage done to the brain.

Repair

The human brain has the ability to repair itself of damage. Free radicals damage the brain more quickly than it can mend itself. Fortunately, consuming enough antioxidants can allow the brain to fully repair itself.

Benefits

Intake of antioxidants prevents many mental disorders including dementia. Antioxidants also improve cognitive function of the elderly and help stroke victims recover from the damage a stroke causes.

References

• Antioxidants and Health
• The Human Brain -- Micronutrients
• Top 10 Antioxidant Foods