Can Beta-Carotene and Vitamin C Help Prevent Dementia?

Vitamin C and beta-carotene are common nutrients that have antioxidant properties (meaning that they neutralize harmful free radicals in our bodies). Now, new preliminary research is suggesting that they may also help to protect against dementia.

Dementia can be a heartbreaking disease that causes the brain to deteriorate, often affecting seniors. Symptoms include memory loss, problems with judgment and reasoning, and changes in mood, behaviour, and communicative abilities. In the study, researchers noted that those with lower levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene were more likely to have dementia. The researchers suspect that oxidative stress contributes to dementia, which vitamin C and beta-carotene help fight.

Although more research needs to be done, it’s a good idea to include a healthy amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene rich foods in your diet. Some researchers even believe that our recommended daily allowance of vitamin C may be too low. Supplements are also available at your local health food store.

You can also read our recent article “Keep your memory sharp” for tips for how to help ward off dementia.