Spices May Hold Key to Preventing Alzheimer's and Heart Disease
Researchers have discovered that common spices may hold the key to preventing and managing chronic diseases like Alzheimer's and heart disease. Studies have shown that compounds found in spices such as saffron, cumin, cinnamon, and sumac can combat oxidative stress, regulate inflammation, and target key proteins associated with these conditions.
A team of researchers, including Dr. Seyed Mohammad Nabavi, has been studying the neuroprotective effects of spices like saffron and cumin. Their findings, published in recent years, suggest that compounds in these spices can effectively bind to major Alzheimer's risk genes and target key proteins involved in both Alzheimer's and heart disease.
Compounds like kaempferol, apigenin, and myristic acid, found in these spices, can be absorbed by the body, reach the brain, and avoid causing liver damage. A modified version of a cinnamon compound has also been found to bind effectively to a major Alzheimer's risk gene. Remarkably, saffron has been shown to be as effective as a common Alzheimer's medication in improving cognitive function.
With heart disease being the leading cause of death in the US and Alzheimer's rates expected to rise significantly, these findings offer promising avenues for prevention and management. Further research is needed to fully understand and harness the potential of these compounds, but incorporating these spices into our diets could be a simple and effective way to combat these devastating diseases.
