Folic acid boosts brain power
Researchers from the Netherlands have shown that supplementing the diet with folic acid can help boost brain power in the over-50s. In this three-year study, those taking 800 micrograms of folic acid per day performed significantly better in a range of mental agility tests than those taking a placebo. The government recommends 200 micrograms of folic acid per day for adults but says most people can get enough folic acid by eating a varied and balanced diet, Folic acid is widely available in a veggie diet; good sources include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peas, chickpeas, yeast extract and brown rice.
Durga et al., 2007. Effect of 3-year folic acid supplementation on cognitive function in older adults in the FACIT trial: a randomised, double blind, controlled trial. Lancet. 369 (9557) 208-216.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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