Plant Compound in Carrots Boosts Brain Health

News
By published
carrot-celery-juices-101013-02
(Image credit: Tatiana Belova | Dreamstime)

A plant compound found in carrots and olive oil helps reduce age-related inflammation in the brain and memory deficits, according to a new study conducted in mice.

The compound, called luteolin, is also found in peppers , celery, peppermint, rosemary and chamomile. The findings suggest eating a healthy diet potentially reduces age-related inflammation in the brain, resulting in better brain function, said researchers from the University of Illinois.

In the study, adult mice (ages 3 to 6 months) and older mice (age 2 years) were fed a normal diet or a luteolin-supplemented diet for four weeks. Researchers tested their memory, and measured levels of inflammation in a brain region called the hippocampus, which is important to memory and spatial awareness.

During normal aging, immune cells in the brain tend to produce more inflammatory molecules, which contribute to memory problems. Luteolin stopps the release of these inflammatory molecules in the brain, researchers said.

Tests conducted with immune cells in lab dishes show exposure to luteolin wards off toxins that can kill neurons in the brain, the study said.

"When we provided the old mice luteolin in the diet, it reduced inflammation in the brain and, at the same time, restored working memory to what was seen in young cohorts," study researcher Rodney Johnson, a professor at the university, said in a statement.

The study was published today (Oct. 13) in the Journal of Nutrition.

Live Science Staff
Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.