As individuals age their levels of naturally occurring oxidative stress (OS) increase. Higher levels of OS have been identified as a key contributing factor into age-associated working memory decline. Consequently, dietary alterations and supplements which can mitigate these effects have gained significant research interest in recent years. The literature at present suggests that supplementation with carotenoids, especially those within the xanthophyll family, such as zeaxanthin, lutein and astaxanthin to be of potential benefit to working memory (WM) in older adults. This finding is suggested to stem from the established benefits of carotenoid consumption. These benefits are thought to include but are not limited to their strong antioxidant properties, benefits to neural plasticity and ability to reach brain regions which specifically contribute to markers of cognition. The present chapter explores the effects of carotenoid supplementation and consumption on working memory in older adults and discusses the underlying reasons for differences in study outcomes within the literature. Potential mechanisms for cognitive enhancement associated with the role of carotenoids in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain are also considered. Areas for future research including optimal carotenoid dose, carotenoid supplementation duration, issues with correlation versus causation, testing methodologies and subsequent critical recommendations, are also discussed.

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Evidence on Carotenoid Supplementation to Improve Working Memory in Older Adults

  • Callum James Joshua Queen,
  • David C. Marchant

摘要

As individuals age their levels of naturally occurring oxidative stress (OS) increase. Higher levels of OS have been identified as a key contributing factor into age-associated working memory decline. Consequently, dietary alterations and supplements which can mitigate these effects have gained significant research interest in recent years. The literature at present suggests that supplementation with carotenoids, especially those within the xanthophyll family, such as zeaxanthin, lutein and astaxanthin to be of potential benefit to working memory (WM) in older adults. This finding is suggested to stem from the established benefits of carotenoid consumption. These benefits are thought to include but are not limited to their strong antioxidant properties, benefits to neural plasticity and ability to reach brain regions which specifically contribute to markers of cognition. The present chapter explores the effects of carotenoid supplementation and consumption on working memory in older adults and discusses the underlying reasons for differences in study outcomes within the literature. Potential mechanisms for cognitive enhancement associated with the role of carotenoids in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain are also considered. Areas for future research including optimal carotenoid dose, carotenoid supplementation duration, issues with correlation versus causation, testing methodologies and subsequent critical recommendations, are also discussed.