Berries are known to have a reservoir of antioxidants, which can help protect your vital organs including the brain and heart. Recent research shows, one such type of berries, blueberries can help improve your brain function and cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) health. Scientists believe adding blueberries to your regular diet can provide you with a plethora of benefits. Let’s address some of the benefits of blueberries.

Benefits of Blueberries in Improving Brain Function

1. Blueberries help in better cognition and improve memory

A study conducted with the help of young and old participants showed that the individuals who consumed blueberries regularly experienced an increase in blood flow in their bodies. It was noticed that the blood flow to the key areas of the brain was enhanced, resulting in major improvements in memory and attentiveness while performing a task. Other tests also revealed that people consuming blueberries for several months showed much better results compared to a group of non-consumers. 

2. Blueberries help in slowing down the ageing process

Consuming berries regularly can increase the number of neurons in your brain which can be extremely beneficial in slowing down the ageing process. Neurons are considered to be the building blocks of both the brain and the spinal cord. Clinical research has also shown that blueberries can help prevent age-related neurodegenerative diseases as they have neuroprotective effects. Including blueberries in your diet can also help reduce inflammation. On the cellular level, blueberries can improve cell survival, nerve signals and the nerve’s ability to be flexible.

3. Blueberries help prevent dementia

Vascular dementia is typically caused by the clogging of arteries and veins, slowing down the blood flow to the brain. Eating more blueberries can help in protecting the brain from oxidative stress. It can also counteract the activity of AGEs (advanced glycation end-products), which are often linked with diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Blueberries can help reduce the risk of acquiring cardiovascular diseases

Dark-coloured berries like blueberries are rich in polyphenols (such as anthocyanins) and simple phenolic acid, which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It has been noticed that consuming blueberries in the long term helps in improving blood pressure. Both its frozen and dried forms are frequently studied for their cardiovascular protective properties.

Blueberries are also available in powdered forms. However, the nutritional value of those products is extremely low compared to the whole fruit. Eating whole blueberries daily will ensure that your bloodstream is full of protective compounds. If you have any doubts,

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Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.