Benefits of Blueberries

The consumption of berries can enhance beneficial signaling in the brain. Plant foods are our primary source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, but some plant foods may be better than others. As I've explained before, one cup of blueberries a day can improve cognition among older adults, as shown in this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. And the same thing in kids after just a single meal of blueberries; though, two cups may work better than one. That single hit of berries may also improve mood. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in which kids are asked a series of questions: Are you very slightly or not at all, a little, moderately, quite a bit, or extremely interested, excited, strong, etc. Before and after drinking the placebo, no significant change, but two hours after consuming about two cups of blueberries, their positive mood scores significantly improved. They felt more enthusiastic, alert, inspired, attentive that kind of thing. That was in young adults, ages 18 through 21; same thing in 7 to 10-year-old children. Some dangerous new mood enhancing drug or Ritalin? No, blueberries and just after a single meal. Now blueberries can't do everything. Although a cup of berries certainly appears to improve brain function... no improvement in walking or balance was observed.