Rich in antioxidants and anthocyanas, blueberries are much more than a gourmet fruit: they would have a real impact on cognitive capacities and overall health.
Real improvement in cognitive health
A study published in Nutrients Followed participants consuming half a cup of daily blueberries for 12 weeks. Result: their working memory, their concentration and their organizational skills have improved significantly. As the researchers summarize: “We have observed improved performance for the blueberry group on “lexical access and memory interference measures, and the participants” treated with the blueberry “reported a reduction in the difficulties of encoding memory in the activities of daily life”. The authors also note an increase in executive capacities, and suggest that continuous supplementation in blueberries could help protect against cognitive decline when it is established early.
In other words, blueberries would stimulate language, short -term memory and decision -making.
A superfruit with multiple assets
But that’s not all. Other works confirm their positive health effects. Thus a study in Nutrients reveals that they have the property of improving glucose management and insulin levels and another published in Antioxidants Indicates that they strengthen the elasticity of the skin and reduce its roughness. These benefits would be linked to their richness in antioxidants, which fight against inflammation and support the production of cellular energy. A crucial point for overweight or insulin resistant people, more exposed to metabolic disorders and cognitive decline.
However, blueberries are not a magic baguette and cognitive health are of course only based on their consumption. The researchers recall that a varied and balanced diet, the practice of physical activity and a good sleep remain the pillars of brain health. But adding this small fruit to your menus can act as a trigger. This is what psychologists call “training“: A positive choice, even minimal, encourages to adopt others.