Cranberries for a Better Brain

New research shows cranberries could be a powerful way to protect brain health and memory as we age!!

As the brain ages, cumulative influences of oxidative stress and inflammation can worsen a person’s risk for cognitive decline or even dementia. 

But foods that are rich in flavonoids like anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins can provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection. 

Blueberries take a lot of the credit for being rich in these micronutrients, but this new study shows that cranberries could be another beneficial berry for the brain. Here are the details:

• 60 adults between the ages of 50 and 80 participated in the study.

• Participants took either a placebo or a freeze-dried cranberry powder that was equivalent to eating 100g or 1 cup of cranberries per day—for 12 weeks. 

• Daily cranberry supplementation improved memory of everyday events (episodic memory), neural functioning, and delivery of blood to the brain.  

I’m a huge believer in the power of food to keep us healthy. Sometimes that means everyday choices, and sometimes that means adding in a little supplementation. 

Seeing that cranberry supplementation can support memory after only 12 weeks is exciting. Imagine what would happen over 12 years? 

If you’re interested in trying a cranberry supplement, we recommend this one.