The Gary Null Show - 10-6-26

HEALTH NEWS

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Blueberries can modify the gut microbiome in older adults with mild depression

Hinda & Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research & Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, September 30 2026 (Medical Xpress)

A new pilot study found that older, sedentary adults who consumed blueberries daily showed a greater, more consistent reduction in depressive symptoms, along with minor changes in markers of gut microbial enzymes.

The preliminary data warrant further research into the link between blueberries, the gut microbiome and mood in older adults.

Fiber and anthocyanins in blueberries have potential to modify the gut microbiome and metabolites that are relevant to depression in older adults.

Sedentary adults 65 and older with mild depressive symptoms were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled pilot study. Participants consumed 48 grams (1.7 ounces) of blueberry powder per day (approximately two cups, or 475 milliliters, of fresh berries) or a matched placebo powder for three months.