Many factors affect the brain as we age.
As a result, researchers continue to investigate which nutrients may play a role in memory and thinking.
A new study from Japan, published in PLOS One, analyzed data from nearly 2,000 people over the age of 65.
Participants underwent brain scans, while researchers also measured their blood levels of vitamin C.
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Brain networks
Among other things, the researchers examined an important brain network involved in memory and other cognitive functions.
Previous research has shown that impairments in this network may be associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
The results showed that people with low vitamin C levels were more likely to have less gray matter in the brain and weaker connections within brain networks.
Gray matter is important for functions such as memory and decision-making.
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Protecting cells
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that helps the body protect cells from damage.
According to previous research, it may also play a role in brain function.
The researchers accounted for several factors, including age, education, lifestyle, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Even so, the association between low vitamin C levels and changes in the brain remained evident.
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Important limitation
The researchers emphasize that the study only shows an association.
It does not prove that a lack of vitamin C directly leads to poorer brain function.
However, older adults with low vitamin C levels in this study showed more brain changes that previous research has linked to cognitive decline.
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