Vitamin D, green tea and cocoa help prevent alzheimer's disease

A nutrient found in grapes, green tea and cocoa could have a significant impact on the brain cell damage that leads to Alzheimer's disease, according to the results of a new study carried out by scientists at Kings College, London (UK).

Alzheimer's disease is believed to be caused by a build up of sticky proteins in the brain called 'amyloid plaques'. Results revealed that epicatechin may prevent their formation.

Through a series of experiments, the researchers were able to determine that curcumin and vitamin D could 'double team' Alzheimer's plaques through a joint mechanism of action. Curcumin was shown to help white blood cells latch onto plaque proteins, while vitamin D could bring up the rear and increase the speed at which the cells were able to gobble it up.