UMaine to study effect of blueberries on adults

ORONO – Can wild blueberry supplements improve memory, coordination and other brain skills? Animal research at Tufts University has demonstrated the benefits of wild blueberries in older rats. A new study in Orono will be the first to examine the berries’ effects on healthy adults.

Researchers Mary Ellen Camire, professor in food science and human nutrition, and Michael Robbins, associate research professor of psychology, are coordinating the study funded by the Maine Technology Institute.

They are seeking some 100 healthy persons between the ages of 25 and 45 who will participate in the 17-week-long study, which involves six visits to campus for training and testing. Volunteers who complete the study will be paid $50. Volunteers will take a variety of tests to measure whether the blueberry capsules can affect brain function.

The research project is a collaboration of the university, Eastern Maine Medical Center, Indian Meadows Herbals, a dietary supplement manufacturer in Eastbrook, and the British software firm Cognition Drug Research.

For information, call Mary Ellen Camire, 581-1733, or e-mail Mary.Camire@umit.maine.edu.