Blueberries For Brain Health

http://www.karenrothnutrition.com As we age, many see a decline in mental capabilities whether its memory loss, trouble thinking of the right word, being forgetful, and we blame it on getting old. When in fact, 2 of the major causes of mental decline is oxidative damage and inflammation.
The National Institute of Aging conducted a study with rats on how blueberries may protect the brain. The two groups were both given a toxic chemical that causes the same kind of damage to the brain as we see in Alzheimer's. The outcome was that the rats that had a diet rich in blueberries prior to having been exposed to the chemical showed much less decline. That's powerful protection.
That's significant when you consider that 1 in 5 people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer's.
Blueberries contain almost 40% more of the same antioxidant found in Red Wine. Its this antioxidant that protects the brain from oxidative stress. Remember that's when the cells of the body die off due to lack of anti-oxidants.
Eating blueberries can reverse short term memory loss.
•Add frozen blueberries to your smoothies and shakes
•Fresh or frozen blueberries make a boring bowl of cereal very tasty
•Mixed in Yogurt
•Toss fresh berries in salads
•Freeze them and just snack on them like that very refreshing
Blueberries are in peak season from May through October, so get them while they are in season, stock up and freeze them.

And remember organic is preferable. I just got a sneak peak at the 2010 Shoppers Guide to Pesticides. Blueberries are now #5 on the list of the most heavily sprayed. Ill be sharing with you the new guide as soon as its available for download.
If you can't get organic blueberries, consider taking a supplement of grapes and berries like found here. http://www.allyourservings.com

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Tags:

• blueberries
• brain health
• Alzheimer's
• memory loss
• forgetfulness
• getting old
• mental decline
• anti-oxidants
• inflammation