Blueberries and Cognitive Impairment

  Okay, so I go on about blueberries, sometimes a little too much, but hey, here's another reason for eating those sweet wee berries!

     In a study involving young rats it was found that consuming a 2% blueberry extract offered significant protection against neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.  The blueberry enriched diet seemed to protect the rats from the cellular damage that causes degeneration and decline. 

     In another study it was found that the intake of blueberry extract actually helped reverse the age related effects of lack of balance and coordination.  This study even went as far as suggesting its use as a treatment for Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.  All it took was 1 cup of blueberries a day.

     Last year I froze 200 pounds of certified organic blueberries.  My kids eat them pretty well every day and John and I eat about two-three cups a week. We ran out early this year and we are bereft!  This season I intend to do 250 pounds. 

     Try them in smoothies, sugarfree sauces and of course in muffins.  You can also dry them and add them to homemade granola bars or make fruit leather with them.  I have 16 plants in my backyard and intend to expand on that number this summer.  I encourage you to plant some yourself.  Nothing beats grazing among the blueberry plants in summer!