It’s almost peak strawberry season in Louisiana, but did you know eating more of this sweet berry can reduce your risk of dementia? A new study looked at people aged 50-70 who reported mild cognitive decline and who had insulin resistance, both potential risk factors for dementia later in life. It found that those who consumed strawberries daily had enhanced memory and fewer depressive symptoms. (Depression is another common precursor to cognitive decline.)
Researchers attribute the improved cognitive function to less inflammation in the brain. Insulin resistance and obesity are more common with age, and those conditions both increase inflammation, even in the brain. At the same time, it’s also typical for executive abilities to start to decline around middle-age.
The latest research is the next step in what started as a look into blueberries. Both berries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have shown to have health benefits to metabolism and cognition.
Strawberries also contain more good-for-you micronutrients called ellagitannins an ellagic acid. Another recent study found that flavonoid-rich foods may lower the risk of dementia. Flavonoids are found in plant products and act as antioxidants. A top flavonoid food? You guessed it, berries!
While researchers continue to study strawberries’ effect on health, it’s promising to think that an easily accessible – and yummy! -- fruit could help those at risk for dementia maintain their cognitive health.