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Effects of Wild Blueberry Consumption on Brain Function in Elderly
Sponsor: Maastricht University Medical Center
Summary
Impaired brain vascular function precedes the development of reduced cognitive performance, while brain insulin-resistance is associated with cognitive decline. Evidence from epidemiological studies has already suggested beneficial effects of wild blueberry consumption on cognitive performance. However, underlying mechanisms have not yet been established, while well-controlled trials on longer-term effects of wild blueberries on cognitive performance are highly needed. This study hypothesizes that longer-term wild blueberry intake improves (regional) brain vascular function and insulin-sensitivity, thereby improving cognitive performance in older men and women. The primary objectives are to investigate in older adults the effect wild blueberry consumption on (regional) vascular function and insulin-sensitivity in the brain, and to focus on changes in cognitive performance as assessed with the CANTAB neuropsychological test battery (i.e., secondary objective). Cerebral blood flow responses before (brain vascular function) and after the administration of intranasal insulin spray (brain insulin-sensitivity) will be non-invasively quantified by the non-invasive gold standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- perfusion method Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL).
Official title: Longer-term Effects of Wild Blueberry Consumption on Brain Function in Older Men and Women
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
60 Years - 75 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
36
Start Date
2024-12-05
Completion Date
2026-08-31
Last Updated
2025-09-17
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Wild blueberry powder
Study volunteers will consume daily 26 grams of wild blueberry powder for 16 weeks, which has to be dissolved in a glass of water.
Locations (1)
Maastricht University, Departement of Nutrition and Movement Sciences
Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands