Daily Strawberry Consumption Linked to Improved Cognitive Function and Lower Blood Pressure
Consuming strawberries on a daily basis may have significant benefits for cognitive function and blood pressure, according to a recent study presented at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society of Nutrition.
The study, conducted at San Diego State University, involved 35 healthy individuals aged 66 to 78. Participants were given an amount of freeze-dried strawberry powder equivalent to two servings of strawberries every day for a period of eight weeks. Cognitive processing speed, blood pressure, and antioxidant capacity were measured before and after the study.
The results were impressive. After consuming strawberries daily, participants experienced an improvement in cognitive processing speed by 5.2%. Additionally, systolic blood pressure decreased by 3.6%, and there was a significant increase of 10.2% in total antioxidant capacity.
This study demonstrates that consuming strawberries may promote cognitive function and improve cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension, stated Professor Shirin Hooshmand, the principal investigator on the study. We’re encouraged that a simple dietary change, like adding strawberries to the daily diet, may improve these outcomes in older adults.
Strawberries are known for their abundance of bioactive compounds, including heart-healthy nutrients like folate, potassium, fiber, phytosterols, and polyphenols. They provide 100% of our daily vitamin C needs and offer numerous health benefits. Previous research has linked strawberry consumption to improvements in cardiovascular disease markers such as reduced cholesterol and blood pressure.
The connection between strawberries and brain health has also been extensively studied. Studies conducted at Rush University found that strawberries and pelargonidin, a compound primarily found in strawberries, are associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s dementia. Furthermore, long-term observational studies, including the Health Professionals Study and the Nurses’ Health Study, showed that individuals who consumed strawberries had lower rates of cognitive decline.
The findings from this study support the growing body of evidence that strawberries can positively impact cognitive function and cardiovascular health. Adding strawberries to your diet is a simple and delicious way to potentially enhance brain health and reduce the risk of conditions such as hypertension. So why not incorporate this superfood into your daily routine and enjoy the benefits it has to offer?
As always, it’s important to remember that individual results may vary, and maintaining an overall nutritious diet and lifestyle is vital for optimal health. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.
