According to new research, traditional Japanese spices are wasabi It can improve some cognitive functions in people over 60, providing an easy and delicious way to take care of our brains as we age.
Key to this association is the bioactive compound 6-methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC), a component of wasabi. Previously linked It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that slow down cell damage and protect cells.
Although a few studies have shown that 6-MSITC; have a beneficial effect Regarding cognition, it has not yet been tested in older adults, who are most at risk for cognitive decline and related problems such as dementia.
”Previous research suggested that antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances play an important role in cognitive health in older adults. ” write The researchers state in their published paper: “Therefore, 6-MSITC is expected to have a positive effect on cognitive performance in older adults.”
The research team conducted a 12-week study on 72 adults aged 60 and older. Participants were randomly and unconsciously divided into two groups. The first group received wasabi tablets once a day, and the second group received wasabi tablets once a day. Placebo tablet.
At the end of the experiment, those who took the wasabi tablets were found to have significantly improved physical performance. episodic memory (remembering past events) working memory Based on a series of cognitive tests (temporarily retaining information).
However, no significant differences were found in other areas of cognitive ability, such as reasoning, attention, and processing speed. The research team believes that wasabi and 6-MSITC may be particularly influential. hippocampal part of the brainwhich is particularly important for memory function.
“These findings suggest that 12 weeks of 6-MSITC intake selectively enhances working and episodic memory functions in healthy older adults.” write researchers.
The research team now wants to take a closer look at what’s going on at the biological and molecular level. No antioxidant or anti-inflammatory biomarkers were measured in this particular study, so we can only hypothesize what effects wasabi has and why it has such effects.
Despite these limitations, this study shows a clear association between wasabi containing 6-MSITC and improved memory function. When it comes to maintaining a healthy brain as we age, choosing foods that are particularly good for us and avoiding those that aren’t is a simple and relatively easy-to-implement strategy.
“Older adults with cognitive decline have difficulty performing daily activities such as shopping, banking, and cooking.” write researchers.
“Therefore, it is important to improve cognitive function in older adults.”
This study nutrients.
