WEST CHICAGO, IL – Researchers in France have discovered a statistically significant link between carotenoid levels in the blood and cognitive function, according to new study published in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences. The study, titled “Plasma Carotenoid Levels and Cognitive Performance in an Elderly Population: Results of an EVA Study,” was conducted over nine years and included a population of more than 1,300 healthy, elderly people in France. Results indicate that participants with the lowest cognitive function were more likely to have low levels of zeaxanthin (primarily) and lycopene (to a lesser extent). The study also showed that total plasma carotenoids, α-carotene, β carotene, lutein and β-cryptoxanthin, showed no statistically significant association with low cognitive performance
Zeaxanthin (pronounced zee-uh-zan’-thin) is a dietary carotenoid found predominately in the brain and in the macula, the central part of the retina in the eye that is responsible for most fine vision. Zeaxanthin is a critical nutrient for eye health and can help guard against age-related vision loss. The potential new benefit of zeaxanthin to help prevent cognitive dysfunction and aid in the prevention of such diseases as Alzheimer’s is a significant development.
“This is one of the first significant studies to show a definitive link between zeaxanthin levels and cognitive function,” says Phil Gowaski, Sales and Marketing Manager for Chrysantis™, Inc. “This new information gives us the opportunity to help even more people maintain a better quality of life for a longer period of time.” Chrysantis produces the only natural free form of zeaxanthin on the market.
While the authors of the study indicate more research is needed, one possible explanation for the link is that zeaxanthin eliminates the free radicals in the brain that can proliferate in cases of cognitive impairment. Zeaxanthin is found in very low levels in certain foods, including corn, green leafy vegetables and oranges; supplementation is important for the body to have enough of the compound to reap the benefits. “We anticipate the publication of further studies that corroborate the association between zeaxanthin and healthy cognitive function,” says Gowaski. “The range of potential benefits of zeaxanthin in human health is truly exciting.”
Chrysantis, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ball Horticultural Company based in West Chicago, IL, is dedicated to developing high-quality plant-based products for dietary supplement manufacturers and the functional foods industry that will enhance human health. Family-owned Ball Horticultural Company has been researching, breeding and selling the highest-quality flower seed varieties for 100 years. For more information, call 630 588-3474 or visit www.Chrysantis.com.
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