Study finds wild blueberries may boost mood of children
According to Prof. Williams, “We have known for some time that flavonoids promote healthy brain function in adults. However, to our knowledge, this is the first, fully-controlled, double-blind research study to examine the effects of flavonoids on mood in young people.”
The study, “Effects of Acute Blueberry Flavonoids on Mood in Children and Young Adults,” was conducted in two different populations. Group one consisted of 21 young adults ages 18-21, and group two included 50 children ages 7 to 10. Participants in both groups consumed either a flavonoid-rich wild blueberry beverage or a placebo and were asked to rate their mood on a well-validated Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), before and two hours after consumption of the drink. In both trials, participants recorded a significant increase in positive mood after drinking the wild blueberry drink.
“This was a preliminary trial and now needs replication and testing in other populations to understand the link between flavonoid interventions and improved positive mood.”
“Sustained low mood is a common problem at all ages and is a core feature of depression,” said Shirley Reynolds, Professor of Evidence Based Psychological Therapies & Director of the Charlie Waller Institute at School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences at the University of Reading and study co-author. “This research is important because it suggests that including flavonoids as part of a healthy, mixed diet might help prevent low mood and depression. Because flavonoids are found in many fruits and vegetables, this is a simple way that we might be able to improve health and well-being.”
Reynolds continued: “We tested children and young adults, specifically because research shows that when depression occurs in adolescence or early adulthood, it is more likely to reemerge later in life. Therefore, the impact of flavonoids on positive mood in children and young adults could reduce their risk of depression in adolescence and later in life. It is important to do more research to evaluate if this is the case.”
“The research community is excited about the results of this new study,” said Kit Broihier, MS, RD, nutrition advisor to the Wild Blueberry Association of North America. “Research on the association between diet and its impact on mental health is in its early phases. However, the idea that we may be on the verge of understanding the possible impact of wild blueberries on mental health is really thrilling. Wild Blueberries have long been known for their tremendous nutritional value. Could they prove to be a ‘happy berry’ too? I look forward to seeing the results of Professor Williams’ continued research.”
In 2015, a study led by Professor Claire Williams entitled: “Cognitive Effects Following Acute Wild Blueberry Supplementation on 7 – 10-Year-Old Children” was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. The study revealed that Wild Blueberries boost memory and concentration in elementary school children.
For more information:
Tim Mayo
University of Reading
Tel: +44 118 378 7110
t.p.mayo@reading.ac.uk