Introduction:
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are progressive, directly affecting the
central nervous system (CNS), the most common and recurrent are Alzheimer's disease (AD) and
Parkinson's disease (PD). One factor frequently mentioned in the etiology of NDDs is the generation
of free radicals and oxidative stress, producing cellular damages. Studies have shown that the
consumption of foods rich in polyphenols, especially those of the flavonoid class, has been related to
the low risk in the development of several diseases. Due to the antioxidant properties present in the
food, a fruit that has been gaining prominence among these foods is the Euterpe oleracea Mart.
(açaí), because it presents in its composition significant amounts of a subclass of the flavonoids, the
anthocyanins.
Methods:
In the case review, the authors receive a basic background on the most common NDDs,
oxidative stress and antioxidants. In addition, revisiting the various studies related to NDDs, including
flavonoids and consumption of açaí.
Results:
Detailed analysis of the recently reported case studies reveal that dietary consumption of
flavonoid-rich foods, such as açaí fruits, suggests the efficacy to attenuate neurodegeneration and
prevent or reverse the age-dependent deterioration of cognitive function.
Conclusion:
This systematic review points out that flavonoids presenting in açaí have the potential
for the treatment of diseases such as PD and AD and are candidates for drugs in future clinical research.
However, there is a need for in vitro and in vivo studies with polyphenol that prove and ratify
the therapeutic potential of this fruit for several NDDs.