Consuming apple juice may protect against cell damage that contributes to age-related memory loss, conclude researchers investigating the benefits in mice. They believe their results are down to the rich antioxidant levels in concentrated apple juice. While studies in humans are needed to confirm the benefit to ageing people, the new research adds to previous evidence that fruit and vegetable intake might be good for an ageing brain. “This new study suggests that eating and drinking apples and apple juice, in conjunction with a balanced diet, can protect the brain from the effects of oxidative stress – and that we should eat such antioxidant-rich foods,” said lead researcher Dr Thomas Shea. The team from the University of Massachusetts Lowell previously showed the benefits of feeding apple juice in mice bred to be prone to Alzheimer’s disease.
