Treating Cognitive Dysfunction with Bergamot
Scientists are currently investigating the potential benefits of polyphenolic compounds in treating cognitive dysfunctions like Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Bergamot, a fruit rich in flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides, is showing promise as a supplemental approach. A pilot study conducted in Italy and published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology revealed that participants experienced significant improvement in cognitive tests after eight weeks of oral supplementation with a bergamot extract.
Inhibits LDL Cholesterol Oxidation
Bergamot extract has been found to inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, which are known as the “bad” cholesterol that can lead to atherosclerosis and restrict blood flow. Clinical studies have shown that bergamot’s constituents, such as rutin, naringin, and neoeriocitrin, exhibit powerful antioxidant activity that helps prevent the oxidation of LDL particles.
Furthermore, research suggests that bergamot extract may have similar effects to statins in individuals with dyslipidemia. A six-month study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology revealed that the flavonoids present in bergamot juice can lower lipid levels in the blood. Other clinical trials have also reported positive effects of bergamot on LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.