Symposium Highlights Newest Research
In June, the 2009 Berry Health Benefits Symposium was held in Monterey, California, where researchers presented information and research about the role of berries in the fields of disease prevention and age-related illness. The Symposium provides an important opportunity for health and wellness practitioners, members of the scientific community, researchers, food industry professionals, and members of the public to share insights about the health-promoting potential of native berries, including the Wild Blueberry.
This year, the Symposium welcomed leading researchers from around the world who presented their work concerning how berries affect brain aging, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolism. Wild Blueberries have been central to research exploring the role of diet in disease prevention and management of age-related health risks. Leading scientists studying the health properties of Wild Blueberries presented findings related to the positive link between antioxidant-rich berry consumption and disease prevention.
The Berry Health Benefits Symposium is an outgrowth of efforts by the National Berry Crops Initiative (NBCI), a collaborative partnership of industry, academia and government focused on policy and programs that support the continued growth and sustainability of berry crops in the United States. Wild Blueberry Association nutritionist Susan Davis, MS, RD, served as chair of the Symposium’s public relations committee, and Wild Blueberry Commission Executive Director David Bell serves as NBCI’s Board President.
