A mixture of Nordic berries improves cognitive function, metabolic function and alters the gut microbiota in C57Bl/6J male mice

This study explored the effects of a Nordic berry mixture on young mice fed a high-fat diet. Mice consuming the berry-enhanced diet showed improved spatial memory in cognitive tests like the Barnes maze, compared to high-fat diet controls. The berry diet also appeared to counteract high-fat diet-induced weight gain and liver enlargement, suggesting better metabolic health. Gut microbiota analysis revealed increased beneficial bacteria, such as Akkermansia muciniphila, linked to cognitive protection. The berry mixture also increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in the hippocampus, which may aid brain health. These findings highlight the potential of berries to improve memory and metabolic health, mediated partly through gut-brain interactions.

Including berries such as lingonberries and bilberries in your diet may support memory and overall brain health, especially if consuming a high-fat diet. While these results are promising, they are based on animal studies, which may not fully translate to humans. Clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits in people. Incorporating berries into a balanced diet along with healthy lifestyle choices remains a reasonable step toward supporting brain and metabolic health.