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Slowing Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease

berries
Photo: USDA ARS

Alzheimer’s disease is currently incurable, but ongoing research is showing that tea and berries could reduce the potential onset of the disease. The USDA study conducted at Tuft’s University shows more evidence that a healthy diet can be beneficial.

Flavonoids are plant nutrients known for their antioxidant, antiviral, and anticancer properties and are found in berries, tea, dark chocolate, and other foods. The study followed 2,809 people over 20 years showed a positive benefit of increased fruits and vegetables to help slow the onset of Alzheimer’s. Those who consumed more plant foods containing flavonoids were more than 50% less likely to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

So what can it hurt? Eating more fruits and vegetables adds other nutritional benefits too! And now a variety of berries are in season. Freeze them for later use to add to any meal.

 

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.