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Recent research suggests that wild blueberry extract (WBE) could hold significant benefits for cognitive and cardiovascular health in healthy older individuals. The findings, published in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over trial, shed light on the potential of flavonoid-rich foods like berries to enhance cognitive function and overall well-being.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, focused on examining the effectiveness of WBE in sustaining episodic memory and executive function, as well as its impact on cardiovascular outcomes.
In the trial, participants aged 68 to 75 years were administered varying doses of WBE or a placebo over several weeks. The results revealed that a dose of 222 mg of WBE led to a significant decrease in executive function at the 4-hour mark compared to the placebo. However, this dosage also resulted in decreased diastolic and systolic blood pressures, indicating potential cardiovascular benefits.
Interestingly, lower doses of WBE (111 mg and 888 mg) showed different effects on cognitive performance, with the 111 mg dose resulting in lower executive performance after 4 hours, while the 888 mg dose led to quicker response speeds. The study also found that WBE supplementation improved response speeds overall, particularly during the projected post-lunch decrease in cognitive function.
The observed benefits of WBE are thought to be linked to its flavonoid content, which may enhance cerebral blood flow and cognitive performance by improving metabolic substrate supply. Flavonoids have also been associated with improved endothelial function and nitric oxide generation, which can help lower blood pressure.
Overall, the study suggests that WBE supplementation, particularly at a dose of 222 mg, may offer cardiovascular benefits and help mitigate cognitive decline in healthy older adults, especially during periods of cognitive fatigue such as post-lunch. Further research is needed to explore the potential of WBE in individuals with cognitive deficits and to optimize cognitive test schedules for maximum efficacy.
