Berries, apples and tea against Alzheimer's disease: results of a new study

Elderly people who consume few foods containing flavonoids (berries, apples, tea) are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

This is the conclusion reached by scientists from the Research Center on Aging at Tufts University (USA), sciencedaily.com reports.

The epidemiological study, published on May 5, 2020, in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, involved 2,800 people aged 50 years and older. The study examined the long-term association (over 20 years) between the consumption of foods containing flavonoids and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia (ADRD).

Flavonoids are natural plant-based substances found in fruits and vegetables (pears, apples, berries, onions), dark chocolate, and plant-based beverages (tea and wine). They have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation.

The research team determined that low intake of the three types of flavonoids was associated with a higher risk of dementia (ADRD) compared to those who ate the most. In particular:

– Low intake of flavonols (apples, pears, and tea) with a double risk of ADRD.

– Low intake of anthocyanins (blueberries, strawberries, and red wine) with a fourfold risk of developing ADRD.

– Low intake of flavonoid polymers (apples, pears, and tea) with a double risk of developing ADRD.

The results were similar for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

"The study provides insight into how diet over time may be associated with cognitive decline in humans, as we were able to look at flavonoid intake many years before the participants were diagnosed with dementia," said Paul Jacques, senior author, and epidemiologist at the Research Center on Aging.

Since there are currently no effective medications to treat Alzheimer's disease, preventing the disease through a healthy diet is essential.

Know that green tea and berries are good sources of flavonoids. 1 cup of tea a day or some berries 2-3 times a week will be enough to maintain a high level of protection.

According to the scientists, 50 years is the approximate age at which the data was first analyzed for the participants, and it is not too late to make positive changes to the diet. The risk of dementia begins to increase from the age of 70, so the main thing is to start thinking about a healthy diet when you are approaching 50 or a little higher if you haven't done so before.