Berries can keep brain young

Previous studies have reported that body becomes vulnerable to many diseases during the aging process as it loses the ability to protect itself against inflammation and oxidative damage.

According to a study presented at the 240th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS), berries and possibly walnuts can reverse the age-related declines in nerve function and behavior involving learning and memory.

Following a diet rich in these fruits can therefore lower the risk of developing degenerative brain diseases and other age-related disorders in the long run, the study found.

The high polyphenolic content of berries activate microglia, the brain's natural housekeepers that are responsible for removing and recycling the biochemical debris which interfere with the normal brain function; this mechanism is damaged during the aging process.

"The good news is that natural compounds called polyphenolics found in fruits, vegetables and nuts have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect that may protect against age-associated decline," said lead researcher Shibu Poulose.

Scientists therefore urged individuals to add more fruits and vegetables, which contain hundreds of health-boosting chemicals, to their daily diet, stressing that those with deep red, orange, or blue colors are the best choice as they are rich in polyphenols.