Benefits of Adding Berries to Your Older Loved One’s Diet

When it comes to proactive dementia care, Cedar Falls families can look to berries to help their older loved ones stay healthier. Berries are abundant this time of year, and not only are they tasty, but they are also proven to help reduce the risks of developing dementia. 

In terms of developing the condition, the Annals of Neurology journal reports that inflammation and stress can contribute to dementia. However, the high levels of flavanoids found in berries could actually counteract the negative effects of stress or inflammation. 

One study revealed that eating 75 grams of blueberries and 150 grams of strawberries each week could actually delay cognitive decline by 2.5 years. Both of these berries are a good source of flavanoids, which are plant compounds that provide both antioxidants and powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. 

These facts are important to keep in mind when providing care for elderly parents. The study’s authors even said that there is “substantial biologic evidence” that supports a berry-rich diet in protecting the brain. Many flavanoids are linked with reduced levels of inflammation, which many scientists already correlate with dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases. In addition, the antioxidants in flavanoids can guard against cell damage from dangerous forms of oxygen, or “free radicals,” and have also been shown to protect the brain in many other ways. 

Previous studies have suggested that berries provided an anti-aging effect. However, these studies were traditionally limited to smaller trials among the elderly or were developed with animal models. Recent research, conducted by Harvard Medical School, observed information from thousands of middle-aged females who had filled out questionnaires starting in the late 1970s. They were asked about the foods they ate. Every four years, they responded to a survey. They also underwent memory and thinking skills tests every two years, which began at the age of 70. For the 16,000 subjects over 70 years of age, their cognitive function was observed every two years.

During the study, researchers discovered that those who ate the most blueberries and strawberries exhibited the lowest rates of mental decline. The largest benefits were seen in those who ate at least one serving of blueberries weekly or at least two servings of strawberries every week. 

These fruits are rich in flavanoids, or the pigments that give the berries their color. These flavanoids are also found in other vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, and nuts. 

In the study, a larger rate of consumption of anthocyanidins, a particular type of flavanoid, and the total level of flavanoids consumed, were correlated with lower cognitive degeneration. In essence, those women who consumed more berries staved off mental decline and aging by upwards of 2.5 years.

Berries and other whole foods can play an important role in providing quality senior care for your loved one. This summer season, consider visiting your local farmers’ market or spending more time in the produce section to find these powerful foods that could work to secure the health of your older parents.