Compound derived from soy could potentially shield brain from dementia harm
In a significant finding published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia, researchers have discovered a potential link between equol, a compound produced by gut bacteria when breaking down soy isoflavones, and a reduced risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and death from all causes.
The study, which involved 91 elderly participants, tracked their blood serum levels of equol over time. The research found a correlation between high equol levels and a 50% reduction in white matter lesions, which are associated with cognitive decline and dementia on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
Equol is believed to work against dementia by improving arterial stiffness associated with white matter lesions and increasing mitochondrial function later in life. However, more studies are needed to determine if equol supplements can deliver the same neuroprotective effects.
Interestingly, the effectiveness of soy products in reducing the risk of dementia is supported by research from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Yet, the study did not provide information on the specific soy products that are most effective in producing equol.
The ability to produce equol from soy isoflavones is thought to be the key to unlocking the protective health benefits of a soy-rich diet. It is less common for the American (especially U.S. white) population to produce equol compared to Japanese populations. Approximately 40 to 70% of Japanese individuals have gut bacteria that can convert dietary isoflavones into equol, compared to 20 to 30% of Americans.
This variability in equol production is influenced by diet, genetics, and gut microbiota composition, which differ regionally and culturally. The higher habitual soy intake in Asian populations likely supports a gut environment favoring equol-producing bacteria.
The study was focused on the effects of soy consumption on dementia risk. While it did not provide information on the long-term effects of equol consumption, choosing soy-based proteins, soy nuts, flavored tofu, soynut butter, and soy milk can increase soy consumption in one's diet.
However, it's important to note that the study did not discuss any potential negative effects of high equol levels. Further research is needed to fully understand the benefits and potential risks of equol production and consumption.
[1] Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4843195/
- The study, published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, suggests that equol, produced by gut bacteria, may have a role in reducing the risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and death from all causes due to its impact on arterial stiffness and mitochondrial function.
- More scientific research is necessary to determine whether equol supplements can deliver the same neuroprotective effects as soy products, supporting the idea that a soy-rich diet could offer numerous health benefits related to nutrition, mental health, health and wellness, fitness and exercise, and medical-conditions like dementia.
- Interestingly, while the study did not specify which soy products are most effective in producing equol, research suggests that a soy-rich diet can contribute to creating a more equol-producing gut environment, which may be more common in Asian populations with higher habits soy intake.
- However, it's essential to consider that, even though higher equol levels seem to correlate with reduced white matter lesions, the study did not discuss any potential negative effects of high equol levels, and further research is needed to ensure the complete safety and benefits of equol production and consumption in supplements or increased soy intake in one's diet.
