Complex antioxidants in a randomized single-blinded study of memory in seniors

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Oxidative stress and aging are theorized as primary causes of Alzheimer's Disease (AD).
• Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are considered secondary pathological hallmarks.
• The preclinical stage of AD may represent normal aging processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a complex antioxidant (antiOx) supplement compared to a standard multivitamin (mV) in enhancing cognitive function in healthy seniors.
• To assess changes in declarative and working memory over a six-month period.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blind study involving 'normal' senior subjects.
• Participants received either a potent complex antioxidant (antiOx) or a standard multivitamin (mV) for six months.
• Memory performance was evaluated at baseline and at one, three, and six months using standardized tests (NLT100 and 20WR), with data analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEE).

Main Results:

• The antiOx group showed significant improvements in declarative memory (NLT100 change score = 6.36, p < 0.0001) and working memory (20WR change score = 3.23, p < 0.0001) at six months.
• The multivitamin (mV) group exhibited less pronounced changes in NLT100 (2.20, p=0.07) and 20WR (0.32, p=0.35).
• Analysis suggested potential neurogenesis in the antiOx group over the study duration.

Conclusions:

• A complex antioxidant blend, available as an over-the-counter supplement, can enhance memory function in elderly individuals.
• Antioxidants show promise as a beneficial intervention for Alzheimer's Disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.