With age comes wisdom and experience... but also some memory loss and cognitive decline. Research on this topic usually focuses on those 65 or older, but some signs of age-related decline appear earlier. Symptoms can become apparent anywhere from age 35-65 and for some as early as their 20s.
Luckily, researchers are finding that one of the most effective ways for boosting your brain power is through the consumption of different types of berries.
A 12-week study on elderly adults was conducted to measure the effects of concentrated blueberry juice on cognitive performance. The participants were divided into two groups: one group supplemented with 30 milliliters of concentrated juice (the equivalent of a little more than two cups of blueberries) and the other was a placebo group.
The group on the juice improved activation in areas of the brain associated with cognitive function compared to the placebo group. And these effects aren't limited to an elderly population.
The effects of berries on cognitive performance appear to improve a variety of outcomes with things like memory being most prevalent in studies on children and elderly adults while processing speed being more noticeable with younger and middle aged adults. Basically, berries seem to help fight cerebral inflammation.
Most research also indicates that the antioxidants have anti-inflammatory effects that improve neuronal signaling. Scientists say that berries may be so effective because of their ability to improve glucose disposal, since insulin abnormalities have been linked to increased central inflammation and impaired beta amyloid clearance.
Ask Me Anything I receive great questions in my T Nation Community Coaching Lab. If…
Ask Me Anything I get a lot of great questions in my T Nation Community…
An Exaggerated Warm-Up Isn't Helpful I don't know when the lengthy warm-up became a thing,…
Training and Your Metabolic State When I think "workout," I think of speeds. Your metabolic…