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Can vitamin K combat dementia?
By
Gretel Morales - 2022-04-28T10:28:18Z
In April 2022, AlMaarefa University, located in Saudi Arabia, released a statement that rekindles hopes in the fight against disorders affecting memory and, consequently, the quality of life of older adults. According to a press release published a few weeks ago, a group of scientists conducted an experiment on animals, which yields very positive results regarding vitamin K and its potential benefits on Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. It is important to note that although the study was conducted on animals, the results are very promising. You can also read: Drinking coffee could reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer'sWhat is dementia?Dementia is a condition related to aging and usually affects memory and other cognitive functions. This disorder not only affects the brain but also prevents individuals from performing their daily activities normally. The World Health Organization describes dementia as a progressive or chronic syndrome characterized by the impairment of memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning ability, language, and judgment. It is noteworthy that Alzheimer’s, the most common type of dementia, accounts for 60% to 70% of cases, which have been on the rise for several years. Therefore, it is important to find ways to prevent such conditions, as they incapacitate those affected. You can also read: Foods rich in antioxidants could prevent Alzheimer'sWhat is vitamin K?Vitamin K is one of the most important nutrients for health, as it is related to blood clotting and bones. The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains that this vitamin aids in the growth and development of the body, making it essential in all your meals. In the case of the study published by AlMaarefa University, the experts used vitamin K2, so here are the foods richest in this nutrient:Munster, Camembert, Edam, Gouda, and Cheddar cheesesBeefPorkSalmonChickenEgg yolkBeef liverButterFermented cabbageEelNattō, a Japanese dish made from fermented soybeansYou can also read: What is the relationship between cholesterol and Alzheimer's?Does vitamin K fight dementia?The study conducted at AlMaarefa University indicates that “vitamin K could help protect against age-related cognitive disorders linked to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.” In the press release, Dr. Mohamed El-Sherbiny explained that “vitamin K2 showed very promising impact by hindering behavioral, functional, biochemical, and histopathological changes associated with aging that occur in the brain as it ages.” The expert also added that “vitamin K2 could be a promising approach to mitigate age-related conditions and preserve cognitive functions in adults.” It is important to note that previously published studies have indicated that there could be a relationship between vitamin K deficiency and the onset of conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Moreover, the bulletin also explains that “vitamin K supplementation is associated with less evidence of deterioration, depression, and anxiety, as well as improved spatial memory and learning skills.” Although this new information is very promising, more studies and research are needed to confirm whether vitamin K could be the best option to prevent dementia, but it is worthwhile to adopt a balanced diet that includes a good amount of foods rich in vitamin K2.