Effect of Blueberries on Cognition and Body Composition in Elderly With Mild Cognitive Decline

The Effect of Blueberry Consumption on Cognition and Body Composition in Elderly Who Are Experiencing Mild Cognitive Decline

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of blueberry consumption on cognitive decline and body composition in humans.

Hypothesis 1: Adults with mild cognitive decline who consume blueberries will experience an improvement in cognitive abilities as measured by a standardized battery of tests, relative to those who consume a placebo.

Hypothesis 2: Adults with mild cognitive decline who consume blueberries will evidence an increase in processing speed and an improvement in memory abilities as measured in an electrophysiological paradigm and compared to those who consume a placebo.

Hypothesis 3: Daily intake of 35 g freeze-dried blueberries will improve body composition (fat mass vs. lean mass).

Hypothesis 4: Daily intake of 35 g freeze-dried blueberries will decrease oxidative stress and inflammatory markers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women age 65 and older
• BMI between 18.5 and 34.5
• Close individual to report memory decline

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of central nervous system or psychiatric disorders
• Dementia or Alzheimer's diagnosis
• Diabetes
• Smoking >20 cigarettes/day
• Gastrointestinal/digestive disorders
• Uncontrolled chronic disease