Good news for grape lovers. A recent, double-blind controlled study finds eating grapes twice daily may reduce effects of early memory decline, and help prevent Alzheimer’s. The study included participants with mild cognitive decline that were split into two groups. One group received a daily serving of grape powder equal to about 2.5 cups of grapes a day for six months, while the others received a placebo. Brain scans measured cognitive performance at the beginning of the study and after a period of six months. The results show the first group maintained healthy levels of metabolic activity in areas of the brain where Alzheimer’s first appears. These participants also demonstrated improved functioning in cognition and working memory performance. Participants in the placebo group, however, showed significant decline in these critical brain regions.

 

Grapes are believed to support cognitive health by reducing oxidative stress in the brain and promoting healthy cerebral blood flow. In addition, this fruit help maintain healthy levels of a chemical that supports memory and provides anti-inflammatory effects.

 

Source: Lee J, Torosyan N, Silverman D. Examining the impact of grape consumption on brain metabolism and cognitive function in patients with mild decline in cognition: A double-blinded placebo controlled pilot study. Experimental Gerontology, 2017; 87: 121-128.