Improvements in cognitive function, blood flow to the brain, and activation of the brain were among the discovered benefits of blueberry in senior citizens. These results were conducted in healthy adults aging 65-77 who drank concentrated blueberry juice and was assessed through cognitive tests.
According to Science Daily, the study also suggests that concentrated blueberry helps in memory storage. Cognitive function decreases as people gets older. However, previous researches have proved that cognitive function of healthy senior citizen is better preserved through diet rich in plant-based foods, as stated by Dr. Joanna Bowtell. She is the head of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Exeter.
The procedure of the study was taken in account for 12 weeks. Healthy senior citizens have drunk 30ml of concentrated blueberry juice daily and have shown beneficial effects. These effects include improvements in blood flow, brain activation and working memory among the groups of healthy older adults.
As reported by The World's Healthiest Foods, among all fruits, vegetables, spices and seasonings blueberry is one of the foods that contains the highest antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential in optimizing health by fighting free radicals that may damage a healthy body. A sample of 148gm fresh blueberries contains vitamin k, manganese, vitamin C, fiber, and copper.
From the 26 healthy senior citizens in the study, 12 were given concentrated blueberry juice equivalent to 230gm. It was a daily dose of blueberry while 14 adults were given a placebo. Before the study, the participants took cognitive tests, MRI scanner for brain function, and measurement of resting brain blood flow.
As compared to the placebo group, healthy senior citizens who took blueberry concentrate have shown significant increases in brain activity. Furthermore, the study was limited to adults who consume five portions of fruits and vegetables per day while all participants were told to stick to the usual and normal diet.
This study might provide treatment options for diseases involving degeneration such as dementia. Previous studies prove that the risk of dementia is reduced through diet composed mostly of vegetables and fruits. Thus, this discovery is a great treatment platform in medical advances.
