Concerned about becoming forgetful? A research team from the University of Reading and the Peninsula Medical School in Southwest England reports that blueberries may hold the key to enhanced brain function. The flavonoids in blueberries, particularly anthocyanins and flavanols, have been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and directly affect learning and memory, by enhancing neuron connections in the brain.

Impaired or failing memory is one of life’s major challenges as we age, and scientists are now showing the potential health benefits of long-time diets rich in fresh fruits. Although previous research had suggested that eating blueberries may benefit memory, this latest study shows the mechanism by which this favorite food keeps our brains sharp.