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A recent study from San Diego State University suggests that consuming strawberries daily could enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. The study involved 35 participants aged 66 to 78, who consumed 26 grams of freeze-dried strawberry powder, equivalent to two servings of fresh strawberries, every day for eight weeks. According to Sci.News, this daily intake led to a 5.2% increase in cognitive processing speed, a 3.6% reduction in systolic blood pressure, and a 10.2% increase in total antioxidant capacity.
The study, presented at NUTRITION 2023, highlights the potential of strawberries to promote cognitive health and improve cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension. Professor Shirin Hooshmand from San Diego State University noted, "A simple dietary change, like adding strawberries to the daily diet, may improve these outcomes in older adults."
In addition to cognitive benefits, participants experienced a 1.1% reduction in waist circumference, indicating potential weight management benefits. The study's findings align with previous research linking strawberry consumption to improved brain health and cardiovascular benefits.
The study's results suggest that incorporating strawberries into a balanced diet could be a simple and effective way to support cognitive and cardiovascular health as people age.