Curry ingredient, Vitamin D may fight alzheimer's disease

A combination of curcumin (a compound found in the curry spice turmeric) and vitamin D could help protect against Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study.

For the study, researchers worked with blood samples from nine people with Alzheimer's disease, one person with mild cognitive impairment, and three healthy subjects. In tests on isolated cells from the blood samples, the scientists discovered that curcumin and vitamin D together helped clear away amyloid beta (a substance that forms the brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease).

Past research shows that reseveratrol (a compound found in grapes and red wine) may help reduce levels of amyloid beta as well. Sticking to a healthy diet high in whole foods (especially fruits and vegetables), exercising regularly, and keeping mentally and socially active as you age may also help stave off Alzheimer's disease.