New Study Suggests Eating Strawberries May Help Prevent Alzheimer’s

In a 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients, researchers at Rush University found that eating strawberries may lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Strawberries are loaded with phenolic compounds, compounds that have been shown to improve learning, memory, and brain function. A meta-analysis showed that eating strawberries regularly can lower your risk of developing dementia.

Other research has also shown that strawberries can improve cognition and cognitive performance. In one study, participants performed better on memory tests after eating strawberry muffins. Strawberries even have shown promise against Alzheimer’s disease, helping you retain brain structure and learning ability as you get older. Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for strengthening your nervous system. Vitamin C also helps repair damage in your brain cells.

Strawberries are delicious on top of ice cream, as a topping for yogurt, and as a garnish on salads. Try including strawberries in your favorite desserts, or adding them to oatmeal, smoothies, and yogurt. Strawberries also pair well with chocolate, citrus fruits, and nuts, making them a great snack!

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and impairs a person’s ability to function in daily life. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the US.

The disease has no known cause, although genetic factors, age, and advancing age are thought to be contributing factors. There is no cure for AD, but there are treatments that may slow the progression of the disease.
Symptoms

The most common early signs of Alzheimer’s disease are memory loss, confusion, and trouble thinking. As the disease progresses, people may forget the names of close relatives or places they’ve visited. They may become easily confused. They may also start to forget how to do familiar things, like balancing their checkbook or cook a meal. People with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease can usually carry on a conversation but may be unable to perform simple tasks, like preparing a meal.