Alzheimer's and dementia show symptoms like memory loss, confusion, personality changes, and impaired reasoning. They can be caused by aging, genetics, and brain changes such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking, along with medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, also play a role. Head trauma and environmental factors may add to the risk.
Multiple studies suggest that adding fruits like pomegranate, cranberry and avocado into a balanced diet may help support brain health and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are 5 fruits that may enhance cognitive function and lower the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia:
Apples:
Apples contain antioxidants, including quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. A study published in PubMed shows that apple juice improved behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients, specifically reducing anxiety, agitation, and delusions, as measured by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. These results suggest that apple juice could complement traditional medications, helping to stabilize mood in Alzheimer's patients and potentially easing the burden on caregivers.
Avocados:
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, linked to improved cognitive function and reduced dementia risk. A study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that older adults who regularly consume avocados scored higher on cognitive tests, including immediate word recall (IWR), delayed word recall (DWR), and overall global cognitive function, compared to non-consumers.
Blueberries:
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants called flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which have been linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that daily consumption of blueberry juice improved memory function in older adults with early memory decline.
Cranberries:
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which have neuroprotective effects. Adding cranberries to your diet could boost memory and brain function while lowering 'bad' cholesterol, according to new research from the University of East Anglia. The study highlights cranberries' neuroprotective potential, thanks to their rich content of flavonoids, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins, known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The results showed that consuming cranberries significantly improved memory of everyday events, neural functioning, and blood flow to the brain.
Pomegranate:
Pomegranate, rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, help improve cognitive function and reduce cognitive decline. Research from the University of Copenhagen suggests that urolithin A, found in pomegranates, can enhance memory and alleviate Alzheimer’s symptoms. Urolithin A (the good bug) helps remove damaged cells, promotes healthy cell production, and reduces inflammation, acting as a neuroprotective agent. Studies also indicate that pomegranate extract protects against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by reducing brain inflammation and oxidative stress.
Strawberries:
Strawberries contain flavonoids and other antioxidants that may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress. Studies found that higher intake of flavonoids, particularly from strawberries and blueberries, was associated with slower rates of cognitive decline in older women.
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