A special antioxidant may slow down the oxidative stress process and provide significant support for brain health, a team of researchers from the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy reports.

The researchers compared the effects to what happens to an apple if you cut it and leave it out for a while. Pretty soon, the apple will begin to turn brown. However, if you sprinkle some lemon juice, which is rich in numerous antioxidants, on the apple, the process of oxidation will be slowed.

"The brain consumes 20 percent of the oxygen in the body even though it only makes up 5 percent of the volume, so it's particularly susceptible to oxidative stress," said James Franklin, who led the investigation.

In the study, Franklin's team tested the effectiveness of an antioxidant known as MitoQ. This was shown to provide significant support for brain health.

Given the high cost of health problems related to declines in brain health, finding ways to provide greater support for the body's most important organ will be critical in the coming years.