Berries
Blueberry
Introduction to Blueberries
Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) are nutrient-dense fruits rich in polyphenols, especially anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant hue. These bioactive compounds are associated with overall wellness, including cognitive support. Axolt incorporates blueberry extracts into its formulations to complement the synergy of polyphenol-rich botanicals.
Role in Brain Health
Blueberry polyphenols, especially anthocyanins, are known for their antioxidant properties, which help manage oxidative stress in the body, including neuronal pathways (3).
These compounds also promote synaptic plasticity, which is essential for memory formation and learning processes (4).
In addition to their direct effects, blueberries contain bioactive compounds that support circulatory function, which plays a role in overall well-being.
By improving blood flow and reducing vascular inflammation, blueberries ensure an optimal supply of oxygen and nutrients to brain tissues, which is crucial for maintaining mental clarity and focus (5).
Emerging research suggests that blueberry polyphenols may also influence neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, further contributing to cognitive resilience and long-term brain health (6).
Core Benefits for the Brain
- Supports neural pathways associated with memory and learning(4).
- Provides antioxidant support that helps manage oxidative stress in the brain. (6).
- Improves vascular health, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain (5).
- Supports neurogenesis, promoting cognitive resilience (2-4).
- May help delay age-related cognitive decline through polyphenol activity (3).
Axolt Formulation Principles
When it comes to brain health, every little berry counts. Blueberries are perhaps the most well-known botanical associated with cognitive support. At Axolt, one of our guiding principles is scientific rigor, ensuring our formulations are rooted in evidence.
While blueberries have undeniable positive effects on brain health and cognition, scientific research indicates that other botanicals, such as spearmint (Neumentix®) and Greek mountain tea (Concental®), offer stronger evidence as superior sources of polyphenols for brain health.
For this reason, we include blueberries in small amounts, acknowledging their benefits while prioritizing the most scientifically supported ingredients.
At the same time, our commitment to science means we continuously monitor emerging research, particularly meta-analyses (studies of studies). Should future findings highlight blueberries, or any other ingredient, as a more powerful and safe cognitive support, we will adapt our formulations accordingly.
Resources
1. Kalt W, Cassidy A, Howard LR, Krikorian R, Stull AJ, Tremblay F, Zamora-Ros R. Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins. Adv Nutr. 2020 Mar 1;11(2):224-236. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz065. PMID: 31329250; PMCID: PMC7442370.
2. Tran PHL, Tran TTD. Blueberry Supplementation in Neuronal Health and Protective Technologies for Efficient Delivery of Blueberry Anthocyanins. Biomolecules. 2021 Jan 14;11(1):102. doi: 10.3390/biom11010102. PMID: 33466731; PMCID: PMC7828789.
3. Giacalone M, Di Sacco F, Traupe I, Topini R, Forfori F, Giunta F. Antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of blueberry polyphenols: a critical review. Nutr Neurosci. 2011 May;14(3):119-25. doi: 10.1179/1476830511Y.0000000007. PMID: 21756533.
4. Krishna G, Ying Z, Gomez-Pinilla F. Blueberry Supplementation Mitigates Altered Brain Plasticity and Behavior after Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2019 Aug;63(15):e1801055. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201801055. Epub 2019 May 29. PMID: 31115168; PMCID: PMC6684386.
5. Travica N, D'Cunha NM, Naumovski N, Kent K, Mellor DD, Firth J, Georgousopoulou EN, Dean OM, Loughman A, Jacka F, Marx W. The effect of blueberry interventions on cognitive performance and mood: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Brain Behav Immun. 2020 Mar;85:96-105. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.04.001. Epub 2019 Apr 15. PMID: 30999017.
6. Shukitt-Hale B, Thangthaeng N, Miller MG, Poulose SM, Carey AN, Fisher DR. Blueberries Improve Neuroinflammation and Cognition differentially Depending on Individual Cognitive baseline Status. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2019 Jun 18;74(7):977-983. doi: 10.1093/gerona/glz048. PMID: 30772901; PMCID: PMC6580694.
