Regular consumption of berries helps maintain a strong memory, according to a new scientific report.
Scientists have found strong evidence that fruits are useful for improving brain function and preventing age-related memory loss.
Fruit consumption has a beneficial effect on brain signaling pathways, inflammation and cell death. The effect of these improvements in brain function may delay the development of age-related brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Researchers are analyzing recent studies looking at the effects of fruit on brain health.
The results show that berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, strawberries, are good for the brain in several ways. First, the high content of antioxidants in them protects brain cells from damage by harmful free radicals.
Second, they allow a change in the way neurons in the brain communicate with each other. These changes can prevent inflammation, which leads to damage to brain cells, and thus improve control of movements and brain function.
Some studies show that berry supplements help reduce inflammation, said researcher Marshall Miller of the USDA-ARS Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging .
There is also evidence that blueberries and grapes help improve brain function in adults with mild mental impairment.
The researchers note that further research is needed to determine whether these beneficial effects on brain function are the result of individual ingredients or a particular combination of substances in berries.
The results are published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry .