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In addition, researchers from the University of Cincinnati believe that this berry helps older adults combat depression.
The scientists involved 30 adults aged 50 to 65—mostly women—in their 12-week study. All participants had mild cognitive impairments and a body mass index that categorized them as overweight.
The team of neurobiologists was interested in whether strawberry consumption could improve cognitive functions and metabolic health in this demographic. If so, they also wanted to explore whether there might be a connection between improved cognitive functions and reduced metabolic disorders, noted Dr. Robert Krikorian, the lead author of the study.
For two weeks prior to the experiment, participants were asked to avoid consuming any berries. During the study, they were given either a 13-gram powdered supplement made from real strawberries or a placebo daily.
Before and after the study, researchers assessed participants’ cognitive performance through tests measuring word recall, long-term memory, and mood. They also tracked the metabolic data of the volunteers, as reported by Science Alert.
Those who consumed the natural strawberry powder daily showed better information retention compared to the placebo group. Volunteers in the placebo group exhibited poorer cognitive health, struggling with a delayed recognition test that measures memory interference.
Participants who received the strawberry powder also reported a decrease in depressive symptoms and an uplifted mood.
A study conducted by this team of neurobiologists in 2022 found that participants who consumed blueberries daily experienced a reduction in memory impairments.
“Both strawberries and blueberries contain antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which contribute to improved metabolism and cognitive functions,” Dr. Krikorian noted.
However, the new study found no metabolic effects. While previous research demonstrated improvements in metabolism, including reduced insulin levels, the scientists suggested that a larger daily intake of strawberries might be necessary to achieve noticeable results.
In their report, the neurobiologists emphasized that simply eating strawberries is not enough to enhance brain function. A varied and balanced diet, which can include this beneficial berry, is essential.
The results of the study were published in the journal Nutrients.
