Sweet cherries, smart brains
Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables has long been associated with reducing the risk of degenerative diseases like heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Sweet cherries contain several antioxidants and polyphenols known for their wide range of health benefits, from fighting inflammation to protecting against oxidative stress. The composition of these beneficial compounds can vary depending on where the cherries are grown and how they are farmed, transported, and stored. Cherries are seasonal fruits, available from May to August. However, to meet year-round demand, they are often harvested and imported from different parts of the world when they are out of season.
To understand the seasonal health benefits of cherries, we exposed seasonal rats to winter and summer photoperiods and fed them diets enriched with cherries harvested in either Spain or Chile, each with distinct phenolic profiles. We found that cherries, particularly those from Chile, which are richer in total flavonols, can protect the brain’s memory centre, the hippocampus, in these rats. Especially in summer photoperiod we found an increase in the production of BDNF, a protein that protects the brain and improves cognitive function. Our research reveals the exciting potential of cherries to benefit brain health, with varying levels of health benefits in different seasons.
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