Berry flavonoid-rich diets and supplements battle mental health issues in Armed Forces

01 Mar 2023 --- Berry flavonoid-rich diets or dietary supplements may help improve soldiers’ psychological health, according to a study reviewing more than 130 articles. The authors indicate that berry flavonoids, such as blackcurrant and their bioactive compounds and general flavonoids can improve mood, depression, anxiety, cognitive performance and overall psychological health.

Within the Armed Forces, there are high incidences of post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, substance abuse, obesity and suicide, due to increased stress in harsh environments and family separation while deployed.

Berries offer a rich source of flavonoids with both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. 

Further research is needed to better understand the effects of dietary flavonoids and find an optimal dose and form of supplementation, according to the authors. 

Mode of action 
The review finds compelling research that flavonoids can influence brain aging, neurodegeneration and memory. The results show that fruit sources of flavonoids, such as blackcurrant and wild blackberry, may improve mood and decrease fatigue. 

Flavonoids are produced by plants that contribute to pigmentation and protect against pathogens. They are commonly found in food and beverages, such as fruit, vegetables, tea, red wine and chocolate. The study suggests berry and general flavonoids can improve mood, depression and overall psychological health.

Animal and human studies further indicate that berries and their flavonoids have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. 

However, the researchers also note that identifying the mechanisms of beneficial effects is challenging. 

Possible action methods include antioxidative and cytoprotective effects that influence cell signaling pathways involved in neurotransmitter breakdown, inflammation, neuron survival and proliferation. 

Oxidative stress 
As inflammation and oxidative stress have been linked to impaired psychological health, such as negative mood, the authors suggest targeting oxidative stress and chronic inflammation could help treat depression. 

Moreover, depression, cardiovascular disease and obesity are all associated with persistent inflammation, as chronic inflammation can disrupt cellular functioning and overall psychological health. 

The research team notes that berry flavonoids can modulate brain, cardiovascular and intestinal health by inhibiting oxidative stress in neural mitochondria. 

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an overproduction of reactive oxygen species or an imbalance of antioxidants. Additionally, lifestyle and environmental or occupational factors can also contribute to developing oxidative stress. 

Warfighters and depression 
Depression is the fourth leading cause of disability in the US and rates are increasing, according to the study published in Nutrients. The US spent around US$1 trillion on mental health and treatments in 2017. 

Soldiers operate in high-stress work environments and undertake occupational tasks that require a high level of mental understanding, skill and physical stamina. In 2018, 853,060 active component service members were reportedly diagnosed with at least one mental health disorder, including depression. 

Improving mood can enhance mental health and well‐being, profoundly impacting behavioral, psychological and physical health aspects. 

The review suggests pharmacological treatments for depression and negative moods may be limited and often have side effects, such as weight gain or insomnia. 

A recent study linked higher vitamin D intake to lower suicide attempts in US veterans.  Soldiers are at risk of psychological health concerns such as depression due to increased stress. 

Follow-up research 
The researchers note that nutrition and foods containing flavonoids could offer novel and safe solutions as preventative or supportive therapies to reduce symptoms of depression and improve mood. 

The authors note that further research and clinical trials are essential to explore berry flavonoids’ potential mechanisms of action, their effect on psychological health and optimal doses. 

Moreover, researching individual bioactive flavonoids’ actions may help develop dietary supplements with consistent and reproducible effects. Flavonoid composition varies across berries and cultivars. 

Research also needs to find a portable and feasible solution to increase flavonoid intake among soldiers. Products must be tested for product temperature sustainability in austere heat and cold environments, shelf life and appropriate flavonoid dosage.

The authors suggest products such as a fruit chew, powdered berry flavonoid drink or ready-to-eat meals. 

By Jolanda van Hal