Brain health: Right amount of copper in diet may be beneficial

People are living longerTrusted Source, but not necessarily healthier lives. One consequence of living longer is a higher likelihood of cognitive decline and dementia. But following a healthy diet and lifestyle can help to reduce that risk.

To help maintain cognitive function, people should ensure that their diet contains correct levels of vitamins and minerals. Although these micronutrients are needed in only tiny amounts, deficiencies can affect cognitive performance as well as physical health.

A new study suggests that one particular micronutrient, copper, may be important in maintaining cognitive function as we get older.

The study, which is published in Scientific ReportsTrusted Source, reports that there is an optimum level of dietary copper intake for older people, below which cognitive function may be impaired, and above which there was not further benefit.