Blueberry extract may reverse age-related cognitive decline

Recent study results suggest that pterostilbene, a chemical found in blueberries and grapes, may help to reverse age-related cognitive decline.

Barbara Shukitt-Hale and colleagues fed aged rats either a control diet, or a diet supplemented with high or low concentrations of pterostilbene. Results showed that the aged rats fed a diet containing pterostilbene performed better in cognitive tests than those fed the un-supplemented control diet. Thus suggesting that pterostilbene is able to reverse the decline in cognitive function that occurs with aging.

The authors wrote: “Consumption of diets rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory polyphenolics, such as those found in fruits and vegetables, may lower the risk of developing age-related neurodegenerative diseases.”

Shukitt-Hale B Lau FC, Joseph JA.  Berry Fruit Supplementation and the Aging Brain. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2008;56: 636-641. doi: 10.1021/jf072505f