Eating Leafy Greens Could Support Healthy Brains

Vitamin K is primarily found in green, leafy vegetables like collard greens, kale, and spinach, and is also present in some animal foods and fermented foods. Vitamin K is an important vitamin for brain function, but could adequate consumption lower the risk of dementia in the elderly?

ARS-funded research in Boston, MA, studied postmortem brains in elderly people and found a correlation between adequate brain level concentrations of vitamin K and better cognitive function prior to death. In addition, researchers found higher brain vitamin K concentrations were associated with lower odds of dementia or mild cognitive impairment. These findings provide new and compelling evidence that adequate intake of vitamin K could reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Explore Other Discoveries

Detecting Forever Chemicals in Our Foods

Scientists developed a method to analyze PFAS in foods including chicken, pork, beef, catfish, and eggs.

Protecting Against a Serious Blood Disease

ARS researchers developed an antibody against the most lethal variant of the Shiga toxin, called Stx2.

Beans That Help Prevent Iron Deficiency

ARS scientists have developed yellow bean varieties that contain more absorbable iron.

Sugar May Negatively Affect Brain Function

ARS researchers studied whether different dietary patterns were linked to decision-making performance and stress exposure.

Mothers' Physical Activity May Help Newborns

ARS-funded researchers in Little Rock, AR, studied how a mother’s physical activity during pregnancy could affect infant brain development.

Hempseed Cake a Safe Livestock Food?

Hempseed cake was mixed into cattle feed for approximately 16 weeks and then meat products from the cattle were tested for CBD and THC levels.

Controlling Fruit Rots in Blueberries

ARS researchers tested natamycin as a postharvest treatment to control and reduce fruit rot in blueberries.

Eco-Friendly Compostable Produce Labels

ARS researchers worked with the produce industry to develop a food-safe, compostable adhesive formulation for price look-up labels on produce.

Technology Keeps Produce Fresh, Longer

ARS researchers in Albany, CA, are developing a new technology that could "freshen up" the frozen fruit and vegetable market.

Using AI to Control Grain Pests

ARS scientists used artificial intelligence to develop image-based identification for five common stored grain insect species.

Topic

Nutrition, Food Safety & Quality