The Impact of Flavonoids from Fruits and Vegetables on Cognitive Function in Dementia

Josephine Retno Widayanti; Nanny Djaja; Linawati Hananta; Jimmy Fransisco Abandita Barus; Siti Setiati; MI Widiastuti

doi:10.30872/jtpc.v9i1.295

Authors

Josephine Retno Widayanti atma jaya catholic university of Indonesia, Atma Jaya Teaching and Research Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Diponegoro University Author
Nanny Djaja atma jaya catholic university of Indonesia, Atma Jaya Teaching and Research Hospital Author
Linawati Hananta atma jaya catholic university of Indonesia, Atma Jaya Teaching and Research Hospital Author
Jimmy Fransisco Abandita Barus atma jaya catholic university of Indonesia, Atma Jaya Teaching and Research Hospital Author
Siti Setiati Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital - Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8570-5813
MI Widiastuti Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Diponegoro, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30872/jtpc.v9i1.295

Keywords:

flavonoids, dementia, cognition, neuroprotection, dietary polyphenols.

Abstract

Flavonoids are polyphenolic phytochemicals abundant in fruits and vegetables that have attracted attention for their potential neuroprotective effects. Dementia, marked by progressive cognitive decline, has limited effective treatments, prompting interest in nutritional approaches. This review synthesizes existing preclinical and clinical evidence of flavonoids-particularly anthocyanins, flavanols, flavonols, and isoflavones-and their potential effects on different cognitive domains and dementia subtypes. Mechanistic pathways (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroplasticity, vascular, gut-brain axis) are discussed, along with factors influencing flavonoid efficacy, methodological limitations, and directions for future research. Overall, the evidence suggests modest but promising cognitive benefits of dietary flavonoids, especially for Alzheimer's disease, though more rigorous human trials are needed. Recommendations for dietary guidance and translational implications are highlighted.

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