Age-related  Brain Atrophy And Use Of Phytochemicals As Complementary Treatment.

You are frustrated for not being able to attend a meeting because you forgot the dates or just cannot find your car keys.  You have a cascade of events going wrong following a single moment of memory lapse. Do you know, this happens with older people quite frequently?  Not due to occasional forgetfulness but, because of a progressive condition called Brain Atrophy. We can make it better for old people with phytochemicals. Research suggests phytochemicals act as neuroprotectors.

Today we will talk about Age-related Brain atrophy and the use of phytochemicals as a complementary treatment. Before that let’s know more about brain atrophy.

What is Brain Atrophy?

Definition of Brain Atrophy

Image: Brain Atrophy

The loss of neurons, or brain cells, and the connections that allow cells to interact is known as Cerebral Atrophy or Brain Atrophy.  It may arise from various illnesses that cause brain damage. There are different types of atrophies and each affects different parts of the brain. These are:

Cerebral Atrophy: Multiple brain regions are affected by a general decrease in size and function.

Cortical Atrophy: Target the cortical regions of the brain, which are essential for higher-order cognitive processes like memory and reasoning. It is the most common reason for neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s. 

Diffuse Cerebral Atrophy: A widespread drop in brain volume that results in a generalized decline in cognitive function.

Neuro-parenchymal Atrophy: The loss of neurons and supporting cells in the brain’s parenchyma causes neuro-parenchymal atrophy, which affects cognitive and functional capacities. 

These types of brain atrophy can occur because of trauma or injury and illness. Another factor that can lead to Brain Atrophy is aging. Let’s discuss brain-related atrophy now.

Let’s start…

What is Age-related Brain Atrophy?

Your brain changes as you approach middle age because the size decreases in your 30s – 40s. It quickens with increasing age. All regions don’t shrink at the same pace. Some shrink more quickly than others, and as you age, the extent of brain shrinkage is likely to increase. It’s normal to experience change in your brain while you age.

Let’s know the changes, that we experience  in our brains during aging:

What Are The Changes the Brain Undergoes in Atrophy?

  • As we get older, the cerebral cortex becomes thinner.  It is most noticeable in the frontal lobe, which controls memory, emotions, impulse control, problem-solving, social interaction, and motor function.
  •  Parts of the temporal lobe, situated behind the ears and aids in speaking, writing, reading, and comprehending words, might also show signs of thinning.
  • The first areas of the brain to degenerate with age are the ones that grew and developed last. 
  • The shrinking areas of the brain include crucial nerve fibers.
  • When your brain shrinks, fewer connections are left between neurons and the neurotransmitter systems that transfer information from the brain to different regions of the body shift, resulting in many difficulties.

 These factors play a crucial role in aging and decline in cognition abilities. There is no way to stop aging, but you can maintain the health of your brain by eating well, exercising, and discussing any issues or worries you may have with your doctor. One important thing that can play a crucial role in your brain health and improvement is the use of phytochemicals.

Let’s learn about the importance of phytochemicals and their neuro-protective behavior.

What are Phytochemicals?


Definition of Phytochemicals

Image:  Phytochemicals 

Phytochemicals are plant-derived compounds. They have significant health benefits, particularly for brain health. Phytochemicals provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. They guard against harm and protect from other injuries to brain cells.  They also improve cognitive function. 

Here are a few  phytochemicals and their advantages:

What are the different types of phytochemicals and their benefits?

Including phytochemical-rich foods in your diet can support brain health. It can significantly enhance cognitive function, and potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Let’s discuss different types of Phytochemicals that we can get from our diet.

 Flavonoids 

Sources: Various fruits and vegetables contain flavonoids, such as berries, apples, citrus fruits, onions, and dark chocolate.

Benefits

  • Flavonoids neutralize harmful free radicals in the brain. Thus, they reduce oxidative stress and prevent neuronal damage.
  • They help to reduce inflammation in the brain. This inflammation results in cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Foods high in flavonoids are associated with improved memory. It also increases learning abilities and overall cognitive performance.

Polyphenols

Sources: Apples, dark chocolate, green tea, and red wine contain Polyphenols.

Benefits:

  • Polyphenols protect neurons from damage. It reduces toxins, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
  • They promote better brain function. It also facilitates the growth of new neurons by increasing blood flow to the brain.
  • Polyphenols lower the risk of cognitive deterioration when consumed regularly.

Curcumin

Sources: Curcumin is an active compound.  Turmeric contains curcumin. It is widely used in Asian cuisine and is known for its vibrant yellow color.

Benefits:

  • Curcumin reduces inflammation in the brain.
  • It scavenges free radicals available for oxidation and protects brain cells. Thus, it protects the brain from injuries.
  • Curcumin is linked to improved memory and cognitive function.

Anthocyanins

Sources: Anthocyanins are found in blue and purple fruits like blueberries, blackberries, and purple grapes.

Benefits:

  • Anthocyanins cross the blood-brain barrier and directly affect brain function.
  • Studies indicate that they improve learning and memory, especially in older people.
  • Regular consumption lowers the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Resveratrol

Sources: Primarily found in the skins of red grapes, red wine, peanuts, and some berries.

Benefits:

  • Resveratrol protects the brain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
  • It improves memory and cognition abilities.
  •  Resveratrol slows down brain aging. It also protects against age-related cognitive decline.

Key Takeaway:

 Phytochemicals have neuroprotective properties,  They offer a promising complementary approach to traditional treatments. Incorporating phytochemicals through diet and supplements is important for a good and healthy life. They might improve mental well-being and lessen the consequences of brain shrinkage.

References:

  1. https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/which-area-of-the-brain-is-most-suscepitble-to-shrinkage-as-we-age
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-atrophy
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5509316/
  4. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/what-are-phytochemicals-and-why-should-you-eat-more-them
  5. https://www.healthline.com/health/phytonutrients#benefits

Written By: Kamni

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