Eating vegetables, not fruit, helps slow down the rate of cognitive decline in older adults, according to a study from the American Academy of Neurology. No one is surprised that eating vegetables is good for you; however, the fact that fruit did not delay cognitive decline is a strange finding.

Of all the vegetables on the list green leafy vegetables were the most beneficial. Also, the older the person, the more effective vegetables were in slowing down the rate of cognitive decline.

What’s this all about? The current hypothesis is that vegetables are richer in Vitamin E and it is this vitamin that is responsible. Also, since people usually add salad dressing which has oil to their leafy green vegetables, oil aids in the absorption of Vitamin E.

Bottom line: Aim for 3 servings of vegetables a day.

Also, noteworthy another plant is in the forefront of helping prevent Alzheimer’s decline and you will really be shocked – Marijuana. Marijuana reduces the inflammation in the brain that is associated with Alzheimer’s. More research is being conducted to see if cannabinoids (the ingredient in Marijuana) work to prevent inflammation and to protect the brain. The public is being advised: Don’t start smoking Marijuana to treat Alzheimer’s.

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Debbie Mandel, MA is the author of Changing Habits: The Caregivers' Total Workout and Turn On Your Inner Light: Fitness for Body, Mind and Soul, a stress-reduction specialist, motivational speaker, a personal trainer and mind/body lecturer. She is the host of the weekly Turn On Your Inner Light Show on WGBB AM1240 in New York City , produces a weekly wellness newsletter, and has been featured on radio/ TV and print media. To learn more visit: www.turnonyourinnerlight.com