Cranberries show positive effects on regional brain perfusion and episodic memory, study discovers

19 May 2022 --- A placebo-controlled study, published in Frontiers on Nutrition, has uncovered the impact of cranberries on visual memory function for an older age group. The results show that regular consumption of cranberries over 12 weeks improves episodic memory performance and neural functioning.

“The results showed that consuming cranberries (equivalent to 100 g fresh cranberries), significantly improved the participants’ episodic memory – memory of everyday events – neural functioning, and delivery of blood to the brain through a better brain perfusion,” Dr. David Vauzour, lead researcher from University of East Anglia, tells NutritionInsight.

The main aim of the research is to help future investigations to find efficiency in beating neurological diseases.

Berries have historically shown several health benefits.Berry-boosted brain health
Berries and other polyphenol-rich fruits have shown a positive effect on protection against neurodegeneration among older age groups. This is reflective of previous research that found such flavonoid-rich foods to exhibit an overall positive effect on blood pressure levels.

The new study revealed the neuroprotective potential of cranberries, as it is believed to prevent dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. 

“Currently, the study serves as a building block for future research in participants with neurological conditions such as mild cognitive impairment,” Vauzour notes.

The study consisted of 60 healthy older adults between 50 and 80 years old. 

Cognitive assessment
Before and after the testing, the researchers did a cognitive assessment observing executive function and memory and neuroimaging. There was also a collection of blood samples.

Consistent consumption of freeze-dried cranberry power was shown in the first group, whereas the other group was given a placebo. According to Vanzour, there is no difference in effects between freeze-dried cranberry powder and fresh cranberries.

The study was conducted over 12 weeks, and the dosage of the freeze-dried cranberries was equivalent to one small cup of cranberries. The effect of a daily intake of cranberries was measured toward cognition- and brain-functioning and neuronal signaling.

Compared to the placebo group, the study showed positive effects on episodic memory performance and neural functioning. 

Cranberries have previously been demonstrated to reduce negative impacts on gut health when originating from an animal-based diet. They have shown overall increased gut health due to the high total phenol content, and dried cranberries have also demonstrated positive effects on gut health.

By Beatrice Wihlander