Ginkgo Disappoints! Study Finds No Memory Boost
pine Webmaster of Pineapple
2012/09/10 08:43
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September 7, 2012 (Uho Health News Reporter Chen Maoxuan / Compiled)
Previously, it was believed that consuming ginkgo could help improve memory and even delay brain cell aging, potentially preventing Alzheimer's disease. However, according to the latest French research, taking ginkgo has no effect on improving memory, nor does it slow the progression of diseases like Alzheimer's or memory decline. Scholars point out that the most effective way to delay memory deterioration is maintaining good lifestyle habits, such as a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol.
French researchers conducted a five-year study involving 2,854 elderly individuals aged 70 and above. Participants were divided into two groups: one group took 120 milligrams of ginkgo extract daily, while the other received a placebo with no active ingredients. The study observed the participants' memory, brain function, and signs of dementia. After five years, 4% of the ginkgo group and 5% of the placebo group were diagnosed with Alzheimer's, showing almost no difference. Additionally, researchers found no significant differences between the two groups in terms of mortality, other diseases, or stroke incidence, proving that ginkgo is ineffective. These findings were published in *Lancet Neurology* and align with results from a 2009 American study.
Professor Bruno Vellas, the study’s lead researcher, stated that this is the largest study of its kind in Europe and that no prior research has effectively demonstrated ginkgo’s ability to improve memory. Taking ginkgo to combat memory decline is simply a waste of time. He also emphasized that the number of Alzheimer's patients will continue to rise, making prevention a critical issue by 2050. Professor Lon Schneider from the University of Southern California’s Alzheimer’s Research Center bluntly remarked that it is "unfortunate" some people still firmly believe in ginkgo’s therapeutic effects.
It is understood that some believe ginkgo contains flavonoids, which can improve blood circulation and increase blood flow. Its antioxidant properties are thought to counteract harmful chemicals in the body and enhance oxygen and nutrient supply to the central nervous system. However, based on this large-scale French study, ginkgo appears to lack these benefits. Scholars instead recommend improving lifestyle habits, quitting smoking, and maintaining a balanced diet to effectively support overall health and reduce degeneration.
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