Neurologists and nutritionists from the University of Cincinnati have found that regular consumption of blueberries reduces the risk of dementia.
The researchers followed 33 patients aged 50 to 65 who were overweight, diabetic, and had mild memory impairment — people with these characteristics had an increased risk of developing dementia and other diseases later on.
For 12 weeks, study participants gave up berries and fruits – instead, some received a powder equivalent to half a cup of blueberries in micronutrient content, and half received a placebo.
Tests measuring memory and cognitive function showed improvement in the first group.
The scientists explained that “this was manifested in the reduced interference of extraneous information in the process of learning and remembering.”
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that can reduce inflammation in the body, improve metabolism and increase energy production in cells.
It remains to be seen how blueberries affect brain function, but research shows that a healthy diet and regular consumption of certain foods can reduce the risk of developing dementia.
