Vidcast:  https://youtu.be/8_ufaAR9jR0

 

Daily consumption of blueberries may help keep you not only mentally sharp but metabolically healthy.  University of Cincinnati neuroscientists studied an admittedly small group of 33 persons 50-65 years of age who were suffering early mental decline and were overweight.  In a randomized, controlled trial, half the group consumed powders containing one-half cup of blueberries over 3 months. The other half acting as controls received placebo powder.

 

When their cognitive abilities and metabolic characteristics were tested at the trial’s conclusion, the blueberry consumers trended better in word finding, memory performance, and executive functions but also demonstrated less insulin resistance and were better able to burn fat for energy.

 

The blueberry’s magic?  Blueberries contain a high level of anthocyanins, the class of flavonoids that are excellent antioxidants.  They offer protection against cancer, heart disease as well as, yes, Alzheimer’s dementia and type 2 diabetes.

 

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/8/1619

 

#blueberries #dementia #metabolicsyndrome #anthocyanins #flavanoids