If you don't eat blueberries daily you deserve early aging and Alzheimer's

[Guest guest]

Slow Aging with BlueBerries

 

*Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News*

 

07-06-09

 

Jul. 3--Millions of people enjoy blueberries because they taste good and are

versatile enough to be part of many different menu items. Blueberries,

however, are also nutrient-rich and offer a host of health benefits, one of

which may be slowing down the aging process.

 

This isn't to say that blueberries can turn back the hands of time, but they

may help slow down some of the typical side effects of aging, most notably

diminished mental capacity. In a USDA Human Nutrition Research Center

laboratory study, researchers fed blueberry extractions to lab mice. The

extractions were the equivalent of a human eating one cup of blueberries per

day. The mice were then run through a series of motor tests. The mice who

were given the blueberry extractions performed better than the control group

on motor functions and memory. They also showed an increase of exploratory

behavior.

 

The antioxidant components of blueberries that give them their vivid colour

help reduce oxidative stress, as observed after looking at the brains of the

treated mice. Oxidative stress is damage to cell membranes and DNA from free

radicals. Antioxidants are known to find and eradicate free radicals.

Oxidative stress is thought to be a main culprit in many of the dysfunctions

and diseases common to aging.

 

The research on mice bodes well for people, primarily because the senior

population in so many countries continues to grow. By 2050 it is estimated

that more than 30 percent of the population will be over 65. It's likely

that these individuals will be interested in looking and feeling their best

for years to come.

 

Because of their neurological, motor-function link, blueberries may be

essential to reducing the severity of neurological diseases, such as

Alzheimer's and other dementias.

 

Apart from anti-aging properties, blueberries and their antioxidants can

help with general health as well. There have been links to diets rich in

blueberries and urinary tract health due to reduction of the adhesion of

bacteria. Plus, blueberries may play a role in preventing certain cancers

and cardiac issues.

 

Individuals interested in adding blueberries to their diet can do so in many

ways. Whether enjoying blueberries atop cereals, on muffins or simply

straight out of the refrigerator, incorporating servings of this fruit into

a diet can be beneficial and delicious.

 

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