Natural compound in fruits, vegetables can slow ageing, study finds

Fisetin, a natural compound found in many fruits and vegetables, can slow down the ageing process, a new study has found.

Researchers from the University of Minnesota, US, say fisetin has significant positive effects on health and lifespan.

The discovery was made from a study conducted on mice.

According to the researchers, the treatment of aged mice with fisetin reduced the level of damaged cells in their bodies, leading to improved health and longevity.

“These results suggest that we can extend the period of health, termed healthspan, even towards the end of life,” said Paul Robbins, one of the researchers.

“But there are still many questions to address, including the right dosage, for example.

“In addition to showing that the drug works, this is the first demonstration that shows the effects of the drug on specific subsets of these damaged cells within a given tissue.”

Fisetin, a plant polyphenol from the flavonoid group, can be found in strawberries, apples, kiwi, peaches, grapes, tomatoes, persimmons, onions and cucumbers.

Previous studies have found it to also be great for improving brain function and memory, reducing inflammation and maintaining stable blood sugar.

It is also a great antioxidant and acts as a natural painkiller.