Smart dietary interventions and prevention of cognitive decline with aging

Brain aging results in the development of cognitive and motor deficits in animals and humans that are manifested by middle-age. These deficits evolve from neuronal damage as a consequence of oxidative stress. Various preclinical and clinical studies have proved the significance of dietary interventions in improving cognitive loss with age. Basic scientists have evaluated the mechanisms involved in improving the cognitive performance in aging animals by using dietary supplements, though human studies lack in understanding the mechanisms. However, observational data support the benefits derived from the nutritional supplementation of specific antioxidants in slowing cognitive loss with age. This article is a record of the recent progress made on oxidative stress and cognitive decline with age on animal models and human subjects showing the importance of non-polyphenolic and polyphenolic-rich plant products in alleviating age-related cognitive loss. © Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2012