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Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults.
Robert Krikorian1, Marcelle D Shidler, Tiffany A Nash
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0559, USA. robert.krikorian@uc.edu
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
|January 6, 2010
Summary
Daily wild blueberry juice intake improved memory in older adults with early memory changes. This suggests blueberries may offer neurocognitive benefits and support brain health, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Nutrition Science
- Gerontology
Background:
- Dementia prevalence is rising with an aging population.
- Preventive strategies are crucial due to limited effective therapies.
- Blueberries, rich in anthocyanins, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties potentially beneficial for brain health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of daily wild blueberry juice consumption on cognitive function in older adults with early memory decline.
- To explore potential neuroprotective mechanisms of blueberry consumption, such as improved neuronal signaling and glucose metabolism.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week study involving nine older adults with early memory changes.
- Participants consumed wild blueberry juice daily.
- Cognitive performance was assessed using measures like paired associate learning and word list recall.
- A comparison was made with a demographically matched placebo group.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in paired associate learning (p = 0.009) and word list recall (p = 0.04).
- Trends indicated reduced depressive symptoms (p = 0.08) and lower glucose levels (p = 0.10).
- Results were comparable to a placebo group for paired associate learning.
Conclusions:
- Moderate-term wild blueberry juice supplementation may confer neurocognitive benefits in older adults with early memory changes.
- Findings support further investigation into blueberry's preventive potential for neurodegeneration.
- Establishes a foundation for larger human trials to elucidate neuronal mechanisms.
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