There is no doubt that dementia is one of the most common neurological disorders that is affecting people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are about 47 million people suffering from dementia worldwide.
This number is expected to triple by the year 2050. However, you can reduce your risk of developing dementia by making simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
In this article, we will discuss some of the fruits that have been found to have a positive effect on brain health and can help to reduce the risk of dementia.
1. Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the best fruits for brain health. They are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins that give them their blue color. These antioxidants have been found to improve cognitive function and prevent age-related cognitive decline.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that rats fed a blueberry-enriched diet showed improved performance on learning and memory tests compared to rats on a control diet.
2. Apples
Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world and for good reason. They are rich in quercetin, an antioxidant that has been found to protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Apples also contain a compound called pectin, which reduces inflammation in the brain and can help to improve memory and cognitive function.
3. Oranges
Oranges are known for their high vitamin C content, but did you know that they are also good for brain health? Oranges contain a group of compounds called flavonoids that have been found to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that older adults who consumed citrus fruits had a lower risk of cognitive impairment compared to those who did not consume citrus fruits.
4. Strawberries
Strawberries are another fruit that is rich in antioxidants called flavonoids. These antioxidants can help to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to cognitive decline.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that rats that were fed a strawberry-enriched diet showed improved cognitive function compared to rats on a control diet.
5. Kiwis
Kiwis are a small fruit that is packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols, which are all important for brain health.
A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that kiwi extract improved cognitive function in rats and reduced oxidative stress in the brain.
6. Pineapple
Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is rich in a group of enzymes called bromelain. These enzymes have been found to reduce inflammation in the brain and improve cognitive function.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that pineapple extract improved cognitive function in rats with traumatic brain injury.
7. Avocado
Avocadoes are a unique fruit that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are also one of the best fruits for brain health. Avocadoes are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for cognitive function and brain health.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that avocadoes improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
8. Cherries
Cherries are another fruit that is rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins. These antioxidants have been found to reduce inflammation in the brain and improve cognitive function.
A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that cherry juice improved cognitive function in older adults with mild to moderate dementia.
9. Grapes
Grapes are a fruit that is rich in a group of antioxidants called polyphenols. These antioxidants have been found to protect the brain from oxidative stress and improve cognitive function.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that grape juice improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
10. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a fruit that is rich in a group of antioxidants called ellagitannins. These antioxidants have been found to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
A study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that pomegranate juice improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
In conclusion, adding these fruits to your diet can help to protect your brain from damage and reduce the risk of dementia. It is important to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to get a range of nutrients that are important for brain health.