Chomping on Cherries: A Real Mind-Bender
This yummy summer fruit is chock-full of anthocyanins, potent compounds that may guard against brain-cell death, so you’ll stay tack sharp.
Neuron Armor
Cherry phenolics, particularly anthocyanins, appear to protect brain cells from neurodamaging oxidative stress — the kind seen in Alzheimer’s disease. Sour cherries may be particularly protective; it’s thought that they may have higher anthocyanin amounts than the sweet kind. But concentrations vary widely among different varieties. (Here’s another way cherries help you stay young.)
All in Your Head
No matter what your age, you can do plenty to keep your mind at peak performance. Start with these tips:
Give your synapses a good workout.
Test your brainpower.
Feed your mind.
Assess your risk.
Cheers for Cherries
Health-promoting compounds in cherries could one day help downplay diabetes.
Early research indicates that anthocyanins — compounds that give cherries their bright red hue — may help boost secretion of insulin, a hormone important for blood sugar control. Additional sources of anthocyanins include blueberries, raspberries, and other produce with red, blue, or purple hues.
More research is needed to confirm the link between anthocyanins in cherries and insulin secretion. In addition to potential implications for blood sugar control, anthocyanins also may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you have diabetes or insulin resistance, keeping your blood sugar under control is a top health concern. Proven methods of controlling blood sugar include eating low-glycemic index foods and exercising regularly. Some people also need to take insulin regularly. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
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July 14th, 2008 at 10:06 am
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