Blueberries and strawberries slow the aging of the brain
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Blueberries and strawberries, which are rich in flavonoids, slow down the deterioration of cognitive function in the elderly, according to scientists from the Brigham Women's Clinic (United States).
The experts used data from the Nurses' Health Study, in which 121,700 nurses aged between 31 and 55 years old (for the study period) participated. Since 1976, women have filled out questionnaires with questions about their well-being and lifestyle. Since 1980, participants in the study have reported their diet every 4 years. Between 1995 and 2001, with a two-year break in women aged 70 years, scientists evaluated cognitive function. The average age of the participants in this study was 74 years, and the body mass index (BMI) was 26.
An analysis of the data obtained showed that the abundance in the blueberry and strawberry menu inhibits the deterioration of cognitive abilities in older women. The increased use of anthocyanidins and flavonoids was also associated with a decrease in cognitive degeneration. Researchers calculated that lovers of berries delayed the functional aging of their brains for 2.5 years.
According to the scientists, their work provided an opportunity to present the first epidemiological evidence to the public that berries have all the chances to slow the progressive decline in cognitive abilities in older women.
It should also be remembered that blueberries and blueberries can help protect the body from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, since they prevent the deposition of fat cells in the abdomen, reduce the levels of cholesterol and glucose in the blood.
Do not forget that:
Strawberry contains such useful nutrients as: sugar (6-9.5%), citric, malic, cinchona, salicylic, phosphoric acids, when ripening strawberry fruits, amber and glycolic acids appear. A sufficient amount contains: vitamin C, pectin substances, anthocyanins and flavonoids (quercetin, quercitrin). Strawberry is a low-calorie product - 36.9 calories per 100 g.
Blueberry is famous for its large amount of vitamin C. The results of the research have proved that blueberry prevents the formation of cancer cells, thanks to the large number of highly active antioxidants. Berries of blueberries strengthen metabolism, increase the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels, normalize the work of the digestive and cardiac muscles. With constant use of blueberries relieves eye strain and helps restore vision.
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