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When it comes to dementia diet, the usual rules apply. Now, a study from the University of Cincinnati specified that enjoying blueberries may lower the risk of dementia in some middle-aged populations.
The findings, published in the journal Nutrients, looked at blueberry supplementation in 50 to 56-year-olds.
Researchers led by Robert Krikorian found that a daily dose of blueberry powder offered neurocognitive benefits in people who were overweight, prediabetic and noticed memory decline.
Krikorian explained that this population is at a higher risk of developing the brain condition later in life.
Looking at 33 people, the team explored the benefits of berries for those at risk for Alzheimer’s disease for several years.
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He said: “We had observed cognitive benefits with blueberries in prior studies with older adults and thought they might be effective in younger individuals with insulin resistance.
“Alzheimer’s disease, like all chronic diseases of ageing, develops over a period of many years beginning in midlife.”
The reason why the small sweet treats are so potent comes down to anthocyanins.
The lead researcher explained that blueberries are packed with these antioxidants.
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“This was evident as reduced interference of extraneous information during learning and memory,” Krikorian explained.
The study concluded that blueberries could cut the risk of certain people with an elevated risk for dementia.
Krikorian added: “The sample size is an obvious limitation of the study, so it will be important to reproduce these findings, especially by other investigators.
“In the meantime, it might be a good idea to consume blueberries on a regular basis.”
