If you pay attention to the latest news on Alzheimer’s prevention, you have probably heard plenty of stories about different substances that may or may not slow down memory loss. One recent study claimed that a compound found in Marijuana may help to remove toxic proteins from the brain. Other research has pointed to red wine as having potential benefits.

Can Champagne Also Help with Alzheimer’s Prevention?

Well, now champagne lovers everywhere have one more reason to celebrate. In addition to being a symbol of good times, champagne may also help to prevent memory loss.

Specifically, scientists at the University of Reading recently reported that the phenolic (plant-based) compounds found in champagne may help to modulate proteins in the hippocampus and cortex, resulting in better spatial memory performance.

One big caveat is that the study in question was conducted on rats, not people. So, additional research is definitely needed to see if a similar dietary approach might have positive impacts on humans too.

In the meantime, we have a group of rats that is not only capable of navigating mazes with ease, but, might actually enjoy their daily tasks a little more!

How is Champagne Different than Red Wine?

Previous studies have indicated that the flavonoids in red wine may have a beneficial impact on our memory as we get a little older. This was the first study that we are aware of that pointed to the potential benefits of champagne, despite the fact that it is lower in these plant-based chemicals.

As Jeremy Spencer of the University of Reading said, “… Our research shows that champagne, which lacks flavonoids, is also capable of influencing brain function through the actions of smaller phenolic compounds, previously thought to lack biological activity.”

Too Much of a Good Thing?

As with so many things in life, it is important to avoid having too much of a good thing. Even if this research is replicated with humans, Alzheimer’s experts are already warning us not to get carried away.

On the topic of alcohol consumption, Spencer said, “We encourage a responsible approach to alcohol consumption, and our results suggest that a very low intake of one to two glasses a week can be effective.”

So, before you reach for that second glass of champagne, keep your overall health in mind. As a part of a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and plenty of fresh food, the occasional glass of bubbly may be ok… but, this research is definitely not an excuse to leave your self-control behind.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!

What healthy lifestyle tips do you have for the women in our community who want to keep their brains healthy as they get a little older? Do you like to have the occasional glass of champagne or red wine? Please join the conversation.