Maybe you have them in the fridge right now, adding them to yogurt or carrying them from the forest by the handful in the summer. Nevertheless, few people think that blueberries are often referred to by experts as one of the most beneficial types of fruit for the aging organism.
When you think of longevity fruit, most people think of some from the other side of the world. In fact, one of the most frequently mentioned candidates also grows in Czech gardens and forests. We are talking about blueberries, which have gained the attention of scientists researching brain aging, memory and concentration in recent years.
For a video from Health and Body with tips on how to eat blueberries every day, check out YouTube:
This is not to say that blueberries are a miracle cure for aging. Still, there are several reasons why regularly, especially after the age of fifty.
Why is there so much talk about blueberries?
Blueberries contain a high amount of anthocyanins, natural substances that give them their typical dark blue color. It is these compounds that are the subject of a number of researches focused on brain health and cognitive function.
Scientists have repeatedly found that people who eat more berries often perform better on memory tests and may lose mental performance more slowly as they age. But that doesn’t mean blueberries alone can prevent dementia or stop brain aging.
An interesting result of long-term follow-up
One of the often cited studies followed more than 16,000 women. The researchers found that higher consumption of blueberries and strawberries was associated with slower cognitive decline. The difference was so significant that the authors compared it to slowing down cognitive aging by approximately two and a half years. However, they pointed out that this is a statistical association, not proof of a direct effect of the fruit.
More important than one serving is regularity
Experts agree that long-term habit is far more important than the occasional large portion. A handful of blueberries in yogurt, porridge or fruit salad several times a week will do more than a one-time “vitamin boost”.
Regularity is one of the reasons why blueberries are often part of the recommended MIND dietary model, which is based on the principles of the Mediterranean diet and focuses on supporting brain health. In addition to blueberries, it also contains leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grain products, nuts or olive oil.
Fresh or frozen? The difference is not fundamental
The good news is that you don’t just have to wait for the summer season. According to experts, frozen blueberries retain a large part of their nutritional values and can thus be a practical part of the menu all year round.
“For a quick healthy blueberry drink, all you need is a handful of blueberries, a cup of white yogurt, half a banana and a little water or milk. Blend everything until smooth and serve chilled. The drink is pleasantly filling and suitable as a light breakfast or an afternoon snack,” recommends chef David Šlapák.
No miracle, but a smart choice
Blueberries alone do not guarantee a long life or a perfect memory. Still, it’s among the best-studied fruits when it comes to possible links to brain health and aging.
And that’s why they earned the nickname fruit of longevity. Not because they can stop time, but because they can be part of a lifestyle that helps keep body and mind in good shape for longer.
