Blueberry benefits to cognitive function across the lifespan

Bell, L. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0677-021X and Williams, C. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4452-671X (2021) Blueberry benefits to cognitive function across the lifespan. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 72 (5). pp. 650-652. ISSN 1465-3478 doi: 10.1080/09637486.2020.1852192

Abstract/Summary

It is well known that what we eat can influence our physical wellbeing, but interest is also increasing in the relationship between our diet and cognitive health. In recent years, blueberries have risen from relative obscurity to superfood status following a number of published epidemiological studies, rodent trials, and human RCTs, that suggest blueberries may convey benefits to cognition and mood. This commentary explores some of the evidence in humans, particularly during periods of cognitive development in the young and cognitive decline in the elderly. Evidence for possible mechanisms of action are also described. There is little doubt that blueberries convey a small, but tangible, benefit to cognitive function. Effects are seen following dose sizes easily achievable within a normal diet. Nevertheless, further research is needed on the cognitive domains influenced, additional benefits of longer-term supplementation, mechanisms of action responsible, and the real-world relevance of the cognitive benefits attained.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/94677
Identification Number/DOI	10.1080/09637486.2020.1852192
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Life Sciences > School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences > Department of Psychology Life Sciences > School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences > Nutrition and Health
Uncontrolled Keywords	Blueberries; Anthocyanins; Cognition; Mood; Development; Ageing
Publisher	Taylor & Francis
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