Eating blueberries could prevent Alzheimer’s
If you ever needed a reason to eat more blueberries, this is it. We know they’re full of antioxidants and already have a positive impact on those at risk of heart disease, but a new study from the University of Cincinnati now suggests blueberries may prevent Alzheimer’s in people over 68 who are already at risk of the disease.
Researchers gave one group of participants blueberry powder and the other group a placebo powder and found that those given blueberry powder experienced greater cognitive performance. Lead scientist Robert Krikorian said, “the blueberry group demonstrated improved memory and improved access to words and concepts.”
MRI scans also illustrated higher levels of brain activity in the blueberry group than in the placebo group. Krikorian believes anthocyanin, the pigment found in naturally blue foods could be the key to its Alzheimer’s prevention properties. This pigment, which is high in essential nutrients and fibre, is also effective as an anti-inflammatory, is great for people at risk of diabetes and can help prevent macular degeneration.
After the success of this initial research, future studies will be undertaken to study those aged between 50 and 65 with a higher risk of dementia.
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