Addressing Mental Health in Rural Settings: A Narrative Review of Blueberry Supplementation as a Natural Intervention
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-18-2024
Publication Title
Nutrients
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are major public health issues; however, there is an unmet need for novel, effective, and accessible treatments, particularly in rural communities. Blueberries are an unexplored nutraceutical for these conditions due to their excellent nutritional profile, with particularly high levels of polyphenols and anthocyanins and benefits on mood, cognition, and health. Here, we present a narrative review of the literature concerning the etiology and treatments of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In both animal and human studies, blueberry supplementation can ameliorate behavioral symptoms of both anxiety and depression. The mechanistic underpinnings of these behavioral improvements are not fully defined, but likely involve biochemical alterations in the gut-brain axis, including to inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and growth factors. We also review the limitations of traditional therapies in rural settings. Finally, we assess the potential benefit of nutraceutical interventions, particularly blueberries, as novel therapeutics for these distinct, yet related mental health issues.
First Page
1
Last Page
18
DOI
10.3390/nu16203539
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Venable, Katy E.; Lee, Charles C.; and Francis, Joseph, "Addressing Mental Health in Rural Settings: A Narrative Review of Blueberry Supplementation as a Natural Intervention" (2024). LSU-LCMC Cancer Center Faculty Publications. 159.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/llcc_facpubs/159
10.3390/nu16203539