Cranberries May Help Improve Cognitive Function

Previous studies have found that cranberries may be helpful in protecting against urinary tract infections. According to a new study, consuming freeze-dried cranberry powder may also help improve cognitive function and LDL cholesterol levels.

Participants in the study included 60 adults with an average of 65. They were given 4.5 grams of freeze-dried cranberry powder (equivalent to 1 cup of fresh cranberries) or a placebo daily for 12 weeks.

Cognitive tests were administered at baseline and at the end of the study period. The researchers also assessed levels of LDL cholesterol and brain perfusion, which is the amount of blood taken up by certain areas of brain.

Participants in the cranberry group saw improvements in visual episodic memory and neural functioning compared to the placebo group. They also saw significant decreases in LDL cholesterol. In addition, participants in the cranberry group saw improved measures of brain perfusion.

The study was conducted by researchers from Leiden University Medical Center and the University of Palma. It was published online ahead of print on May 19, 2022 in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition.

In a previous study, cranberry powder was found to provide cardiovascular benefits.