Alzheimer’s News

Apples and Alzheimer’s

In a 20-year study of 2,800 adults age 50 and over, those who consumed more foods rich in flavonoids such as; apples, berries, tea, red wine and dark chocolate were 2-4 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) compared with people whose flavonoid intake was low. Flavonoids, found in plants, have been associated with many health benefits, including reduced inflammation, which in the brain is a trigger for Alzheimer’s. High flavonoid intake was equal to roughly 7.5 cups of blueberries or strawberries per month or eight apples and pears per month or 19 cups of tea per month. Low flavonoid consumption was equal to eating no berries per month or roughly 1 ½ apples per month or no tea. This was associated with up to four times greater risk of developing ADRD later in life. This long term study was led by scientists at the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University and was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
For more information the Alzheimer’s Helpline is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making, and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.