An experimental study showed that daily consumption of blueberry powder may be associated with an improvement in some depression symptoms among the elderly, alongside indications of changes in gut bacteria and their functions. However, the results did not prove a statistically significant improvement in mood compared to the control group.
Experiment Details
The website Science Daily reported on Sunday that the study was conducted by researchers at the Hind and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, part of the American organization Hebrew SeniorLife, in collaboration with researchers from Harvard Medical School. The results were published in the journal "Nutrition, Health and Aging."
The study lasted three months and included individuals aged 65 and older who suffered from mild depressive symptoms and low levels of physical activity. Eighteen participants completed the trial. Members of the first group consumed 48 grams of blueberry powder daily, equivalent to about two cups of fresh berries, while members of the second group consumed a similar placebo powder.
Scientific Results
Researchers observed a more consistent decrease in depression symptoms among participants who consumed blueberry powder, but the difference between the two groups did not reach the level of statistical significance. This means the results do not provide conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of blueberries in improving mood.
The team analyzed samples of the gut microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms living in the intestines, using genetic sequencing techniques. They also studied some compounds associated with the activity of these organisms and measured depression symptoms using standardized questionnaires before and after the experiment.
The analyses showed changes in the abundance of genes associated with certain microbial enzymes in the blueberry group, including genes linked to an enzyme involved in transporting multiple amine compounds, which are substances that play roles in vital cellular processes.
The Gut-Brain Axis
Researchers believe these results may help understand the relationship between food, the gut microbiome, and nervous functions related to mood, within what is known as the gut-brain axis, which refers to the mutual communication system between the digestive and nervous systems.
The results emphasize the need for broader studies to verify these indicators, as the experiment does not prove that blueberries treat depression or serve as a substitute for medical care and approved treatments.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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