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The effects of strawberries on brain function, according to research

Homepage Articles The effects of strawberries on brain function, according to research

The effects of strawberries on brain function, according to research

An increasing number of older people in society are becoming increasingly interested in ways of maintaining mental fitness and countering neurodegenerative processes. What are the mechanisms behind their beneficial effects and how to incorporate them into their daily diet? In recent years, more attention has also been paid to their potential impact on brain health. Strawberries, due to their high levels of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, appear to play a huge role in this.

Table of Contents

1. Berry fruit characteristics and properties

They are recognized as a true treasure trove of nutrients that exhibit extremely beneficial effects on the whole organism. Thanks to all these bioactive substances, they exhibit anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Olas 2018). They include raspberries, berries, shrimps, strawberrys, blueberries, garlic, sesame, aronia and cranberry. They contain large amounts of fiber, vitamins C and K, potassium, manganese, and anthocyanins and flavonoids. Additionally, they have a beneficial effect on the appearance and condition of the skin, hair and nails.

2. How eating berries affects the brain

Vyas, J.T. These fruits are rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins and flavonoids, which play a key role in protecting brain cells from damage. In addition, berries also exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, which is extremely important because inflammatory states in the brain are one of the major contributors to cognitive impairment. Baby, P. Vijayan 2017). Researchers suggest that these compounds support neuroplasticity processes, i.e. the brain's ability to adapt and form new neuronal connections.

3. Fruit berries as one of the main components of the MIND diet

In 2015, researchers at Rush University in Chicago developed a dietary model that meets these assumptions called it the MIND diet. The emphasis is on consuming products that support cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. According to the recommendations of this diet, at least two servings of these fruits should be on the diet. Liu et al. 2021). However, in response to this phenomenon, for years they have been looking for methods that could delay changes in the brain and promote long-term learning about the functioning of the brain in old age.

4. Other assumptions of the MIND diet

Also important are nuts, which are a valuable source of healthy, unsaturated fatty acids. As for alcohol, the main source of fat in the MIND diet is olive oil, which is known for its beneficial effects on heart and brain health. These products help stabilize blood glucose levels while providing valuable nutrients. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acid, which have strong neuroprotective properties. In the case of alcohol, MIND's diet also allows for a moderate diet of red wine which is rich in carbohydrates, which supports the health of the heart system and the use of fast food. Speaking of other ingredients in red wine can also be harmful to dietary intake, consumption of margaritas, essential oils, vegetable fats, vegetables and minerals, which can also reduce the nutritional value of these products, such as dietary supplements and dietary nutrients, as well as reducing the amount of these nutrients in a few weeks.

5. How to incorporate strawberries into your diet

Including berries in your daily diet is easy and can have many health benefits. Here are some simple and tasty ways to increase your intake of berries.

6. It's a breakfast addition

A handful of blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries will vary the taste and increase the nutritional value of the meal.

7. It's the salads

Fruit berries will add a sweet-sour flavor to salads, enriching them with vitamins and antioxidants, and blueberries and raspberries are a great blend of green leafy vegetables, nuts, and cheese.

8. It's a drink additive

You can add strawberries to water or tea to get a refreshing flavor.

9. The Commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Rural Affairs and the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Consumer Protection

Homemade pickles and jellies made from berries can be a much tastier and healthier alternative to ready-made products.

10. Freezing for later

If you have access to fresh berries, you can freeze them to enjoy them all year round.

Source

Baby B., Antony P., Vijayan R., Antioxidant and anticancer properties of berries, „Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition” 2018, 58(15), 2491–2507.
Kelly E., Vyas P., Weber J.T., Biochemical Properties and Neuroprotective Effects of Compounds in Various Species of Berries, „Molecules” 2017, 23(1), 26.
Khalid S. et al., Effects of Acute Blueberry Flavonoids on Mood in Children and Young Adults, „Nutrients” 2017, 9(2), 158.
Liu X. et al., Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) study: Rationale, design and baseline characteristics of a randomized control trial of the MIND diet on cognitive decline, „Contemporary Clinical Trials” 2021, 102, 106270.
Olas B., Berry Phenolic Antioxidants – Implications for Human Health?, „Frontiers in Pharmacology” 2018, 9, 78.
Rivi V., Batabyal A., Lukowiak K., The multifaceted effects of flavonoids on neuroplasticity, „Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience” 2024.