Berry Extracts Have Potent Brain Health Benefits
by KhaazRa MaaRanu
11/2006

Blueberry and strawberry extracts were reported to possibly protect the brain against age-related oxidative stress.[1]

First, u may ask, what is oxidative stress? Oxidative stress is related to cognitive or mental decline, which affects our perception, our ability make sound judgements in what we do as well as in assessing what others do. It is also associated with reduced memory and diminished motor function.

Per a study reported in Life Extension that was in part sponsored by NASA, two groups of rats were fed a diet enriched with either 2% blueberry or strawberry extract or a control diet for eight weeks. 50% of the animals in each group were exposed to a radioactive iron source that induced symptons of age-related cognitive decline.

Those animals that received radiation, yet no blueberry or strawberry extracts displayed decreased levels of a brain signaling biochemical as well as compromised performance in task related to memory. U ever constantly forget someone’s name, your keys or even where u were going?

Accordingly, those rats that were fed the anti-oxidant berries were protected and the strawberry fed rats retained and remembered information related to spatial location, while the blueberry-fed animals exhibited improved learning ability.

The scientist in this study concluded that anti-oxidant rich berry fruits may help slow brain aging and could be used to one day protect astronauts against the damaging effects of space radiation.

We can conclude from this that many of the harmful environmental chemicals in the air from automobiles, companies, processed foods, and pesticide laden foods can be offset by berry extracts or eating the actual berries. Also, for those of us that unfortunately r “caught up” in the radiation phase with the use of cell phones, tv’s, radio’s and other wireless devices can benefit from berry extracts and the actual food itself. Besides, berries are delicious and nutritious. Do what you can to use nature’s nutrients to protect your brain!!!


[1] Shukitt-Hale B. Cary AN, Beneficial effects of fruit extracts on neuronal function and behavior in a rodent model of accelerated aging., Neurobiology Aging 2006 Jul 10