Berry Supplementation and Their Beneficial Effects on Some Central Nervous System Disorders

Abstract

This chapter is based in the compilation and analysis of different in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies, which explored the potential beneficial bioactivity of supplementation with berries on some alterations in the central nervous system (CNS). The last section of the chapter describes the possible mechanisms of action of polyphenols, anthocyanins, and other compounds present in berries as well as their relationship with anxiety, depression, and Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's diseases (PD) and their implication in the prevention of cognitive decline and senescence motor functions. Electronic databases as Springer, PubMed, Scopus, and Elsevier were used. Papers were selected by topic specially those related with berries, year of publication, and authors. The present chapter evidenced the potential health effect as neuroprotector of different berries and their bioactive compounds mainly flavonoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins, on diseases such as anxiety, depression, and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In conclusion, for human nutrition berry fruit supplementation might be an excellent source of antioxidant and alternative for prevention and reduction of symptoms in diseases such as anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

Higher anthocyanin intake is associated with lower depressive symptoms in adults with and without major depressive disorder

“…There are several proposed mechanistic pathways for how anthocyanins may modulate MDD. Anthocyanins have been shown to oppose the neuroinflammatory environment thought to underlie depression by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory species (Leonard, 2018; Rafael et al., 2019). The antioxidant capacity of anthocyanins may neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, serving to increase cerebral blood flow to regions related to emotional modulation and cognitive control (Khalid et al., 2017).…”

“…Anthocyanin compounds have also been shown to inhibit monoamine oxidase, which is involved in the oxidation of mood‐related neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline (Watson et al., 2015). Anthocyanins and other flavonoids have been shown to bind to GABA A receptors, a class of receptors responsible for controlling fear, stress, and anxiety in the central nervous system (Rafael et al., 2019; Youdim et al., 2004). Lastly, it has been proposed that anthocyanin‐rich foods impact gut microbiota composition and encourage antidepressant pathways via the gut–brain axis such as improving blood–brain barrier integrity, regulating neuroinflammation, and promoting neurotransmitter production (Zhong et al., 2023).…”

Plant-Derived Natural Products: A Source for Drug Discovery and Development

“…Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are rich in flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringin, which are well known for their antioxidant characteristics and possible advantages for cardiovascular health [127]. Berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, include anthocyanins, which are flavonoids known for their anti-inflammatory properties and beneficial effects on cognitive function [128]. Apples include quercetin, a flavonoid compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which promote cardiovascular well-being [129].…”