Blueberries + Exercise for Cognitive Impairment

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byDavid C Nieman, DrPH

Age: 65+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Recruiting

Sponsor: Appalachian State University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This NIH project will examine the effects of routine flavonoid-rich blueberry intake (12-weeks), combined with or in the absence of regular moderate exercise, on cognitive function in a clinical population of older participants identified as experiencing age-related cognitive changes. This project's hypothesis is that the combination of flavonoid-rich diet and routine physical activity may potentiate cognitive benefits and reduce cognitive decline in an aging population, via mechanisms mediated by the gut microbiome.

Research Team

David C Nieman, DrPH

Principal Investigator

Appalachian State Univ

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for healthy, non-smoking individuals aged 65-85 with mild cognitive decline. Participants must be physically inactive, willing to exercise (walking/stretching), avoid blueberries outside the study, and not use drugs affecting cognition. They can't have uncontrolled chronic conditions or a dementia diagnosis.

Inclusion Criteria

I am a healthy, non-smoking individual aged between 65 and 85.

I agree to only participate in this study and not join any others.

I can participate in a 12-week exercise program.

See 6 more

Exclusion Criteria

I am not taking any medication for cognition or that affects my thinking.

Allergy to blueberries

My heart, kidney, or metabolic condition has been stable for at least 6 months.

See 4 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

Blueberry (Cancer Vaccine)
Exercise (Behavioural Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe NIH study tests if eating flavonoid-rich blueberries combined with regular moderate exercise improves cognitive function in older adults experiencing age-related cognitive changes. It explores how diet and physical activity might influence gut health and cognition.

Participant Groups

4Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Blueberry + walkingExperimental Treatment2 Interventions

Blueberry intake combined with walking exercise.

Group II: Blueberry + stretchingExperimental Treatment2 Interventions

Blueberry intake combined with stretching exercise.

Group III: Placebo + stretchingActive Control2 Interventions

Placebo intake combined with stretching exercise.

Group IV: Placebo + walkingActive Control2 Interventions

Placebo intake combined with walking exercise.