Evonik is to present its latest findings on anthocyanins. The new studies are said to suggest that anthocyanins may benefit cognitive health.

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring, highly potent antioxidants, the company notes, and are predominantly found in blue, purple, red or bluish-black fruits and vegetables. Evonik produces a proprietary anthocyanin-rich extract from wild Scandinavian bilberries and blackcurrants from New Zealand. The extract, marketed as an ingredient for functional foods under the name Healthberry, is also used in MEDOX, a nutritional supplement available in Norway to consumers via medox.no.According to the company, numerous scientific studies suggest that anthocyanins have cardiovascular benefits. Recently, attention has turned to their potential advantages for cognitive health. A past study demonstrated that the anthocyanins in MEDOX safeguard cells and cells transfected with Alzheimer mutation against neurotoxic substances. On that basis, a team of researchers at the Center of Age-Related Research at Stavanger University Hospital decided to conduct a placebo-controlled clinical trial with elderly participants having an elevated risk of dementia. Specifically, they investigated whether the anthocyanins can prevent memory dysfunction.Dr. Anne Katrine Bergland, a specialist in geriatric medicine, and Dr. Ian Grayson from Evonik will report on these promising new findings at an upcoming conference.