Maple syrup is a sweet treat, but recent research has shown that its uses go far beyond its delicious properties.

Scientists from the University of Toronto and the University of Rhode Island revealed that the breakfast staple could protect the brain from disease such as Alzheimer's.

Developing the Maple Syrup Protection

According to the scientists, compounds in maple syrup make it particularly effective against the damage of this form of dementia.

Dr. Navindra Seeram, one of the two dozen scientists who presented the early findings at the annual meeting of American Chemical Society, said that while natural foods like green tea, red wine, berries, curcumin and pomegranates are still being studied as a protection against Alzheimer's, early research has shown that extracts of the syrup have emerged as another promising option.

"And now, in preliminary laboratory-based Alzheimer's disease studies...extracts of maple syrup from Canada showed neuroprotective effects, similar to resveratrol, a compound found in red wine," Seeram explained. "However, further animal and eventually human studies would be required to confirm these initial findings."

His colleague from Toronto Dr. Donald Weaver presented his research as well, revealing that an extract in maple syrup could prevent the buildup of tau peptides (proteins), which is known to be related to brain disease. Other studies also showed that a compound in pure maple syrup is able to stop the clumping of proteins in the brains of rats.

Habits to Develop for Preventing Dementia

Age brings with it a number of changes and dementia is one of the things many people fear at the onset of growing older. Research has suggested that maintaining your mental capacity isn't impossible. One way to stave off decline is to stimulate the brain by learning a new language or skill.

Staying socially and physically active is also said to keep dementia at bay as well as maintain optimum health and well-being of the aging individual. Finally, eating healthy is also a must with a varied diet that includes the previously mentioned anti-Alzheimer's staples to nourish the brain and body.

Latinos with Alzheimer's Disease

The problem of Alzheimer's plague the entire U.S. community, but especially Latinos who are 1.5 times more likely to develop the disease than non-Latino whites, a previous report from Latin Post revealed.

To combat the danger, Hector M. González from the Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Michigan State University won a $5.67 million grant to research on the possibilities of finding early signs of Alzheimer's in Latinos. The grant was given by the National Institute on Aging (NIA).