Superfood Discovery BOOSTS Longevity and Wards Off Alzheimer’s? (Surprising!)
We’ve been talking a good bit about Alzheimer’s recently.
You know by now that it’s a condition many of us worry about, especially as we get older.
Memory lapses, confusion, losing things… it’s terrifying to think that these might be signs of something more serious.
But what if we told you that new research has uncovered a natural way to potentially protect your brain—and your lifespan?
A recent study is shining a light on a compound called phytoene, found in familiar foods like tomatoes, carrots, and apricots.
But there’s a twist: researchers also discovered that phytoene is especially abundant in certain types of algae. And according to the findings, this powerful phytonutrient might be able to extend life and reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s.
Phytoene is a carotenoid—a type of plant compound that your body converts into vitamin A.
Until now, it hasn’t gotten much attention from scientists. In fact, most research has focused on another carotenoid, lycopene, found in tomatoes and linked to reduced risks of heart disease and cancer. But this new study, led by scientists at the University of Seville and the University of Kent, shows that phytoene may hold even greater potential than previously thought.
The researchers tested phytoene on tiny worms called C. elegans. These worms might be small, but they share a lot of genetic similarities with humans, making them a useful model for studying health and aging.
Remarkably, the worms that consumed phytoene lived between 10% and 18.6% longer, and the compound reduced damage from amyloid plaques—one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease—by 30% to 40%.
While the research hasn’t been confirmed in humans yet, the results are certainly promising.
Amyloid plaques, which build up in the brain long before Alzheimer’s symptoms appear, are known to be destructive. But the fact that phytoene was able to reduce plaque-related damage in these tiny worms may point to a new way to support brain health naturally.
What’s more, phytoene also combats oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and inflammation—two key factors in a host of diseases.
And here’s the exciting part—phytoene is found in common foods like red peppers, oranges, and carrots. In fact, tomatoes are one of the best sources. But the researchers suggest that we may also see phytoene-rich supplements in the future, especially derived from microalgae, which they say could become a vital part of the food system due to their sustainability and nutrient density.
This study is just the beginning, but it opens up a whole new chapter in our understanding of how plant-based compounds can protect against Alzheimer’s and other age-related conditions.
And while the science on phytoene is still unfolding, one thing is clear: adding more carotenoid-rich foods like tomatoes, carrots, and apricots to your diet can only help.
To dig deeper into the topic of Alzheimer’s, be sure to check out Dr. Alan Inglis’—a trusted member of the Health Science Institute’s network—Brain Rescue Protocol, which explores additional natural ways to protect your brain. Click here to learn more.
Here’s to giving your brain a boost, one tomato at a time,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
Sources:
Hatty Willmoth. (2024, September 27). Study Reveals Superfood That May Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk, Promote Longevity. Newsweek. https://www.newsweek.com/study-reveals-superfood-may-reduce-alzheimers-risk-promote-longevity-1960314
