Miracle compound found in blueberries prevents dementia and Alzheimer’s

by Isabelle Z, Natural News:

While many aspects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease remain largely mysterious to scientists, one thing is clear: People who are looking to prevent the onset of dementia can find a surprising ally in organic blueberries.

Researcher Robert Krikorian of the University of Cincinnati carried out a study of 47 people aged 68 and over, who had been diagnosed with a mild level of cognitive impairment. (This could entail slight memory lapses that may or may not eventually develop into dementia.)

In the study, some participants were given a powder made from a teacup-sized amount of blueberries, while others were given a placebo powder. They were given mental tests that focused on the thinking and memory skills that are often affected by dementia at the beginning of the study and again at its conclusion.

Those who consumed the berry powder showed a significant improvement in their cognitive function compared to the placebo group, and this finding was backed up by brain scans that showed more activity in the group who had consumed the blueberries.

This benefit is likely due to the anthocyanins in blueberries, which are the chemicals that give the fruit its deep blue hue. It is believed that they can affect the brain by reducing inflammation, enhancing blood flow, and making it easier for cells to communicate.

Just one of many studies showing that blueberries aid memory

Dr. Krikorian said that these findings corroborated previous studies in both humans and animals. Next, he wants to study people who are in their 50s and early 60s with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s.

He also emphasizes the importance of starting to eat the berries in middle age, as research shows that the disease could actually eat away at one’s brain for decades before the first symptoms start to emerge. It is not yet known what amount will get the job done, but he believes that eating the fruit a few times a week is sufficient.

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