New Study Shows Wasabi’s Cognitive Benefits for Older Adults
A recent study has revealed that the popular Japanese spice, wasabi, may help improve cognitive function in older adults. The research suggests that a specific compound found in the spice, known as 6-MSITC, could offer potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can protect and slow down damage to cells.
While previous studies have highlighted the benefits of 6-MSITC for cognition, this study specifically focused on older adults, a group that is most susceptible to cognitive decline and related issues like dementia. The aim was to determine whether the compound could enhance cognitive performance in this population.
The trial involved 72 participants aged over 60 and lasted for 12 weeks. The participants were divided randomly into two groups, with one group taking a wasabi tablet daily, while the other group received a placebo tablet.
At the end of the study, those who consumed the wasabi tablets demonstrated significantly improved episodic memory (the ability to recall past events) and working memory (temporarily holding information) based on cognitive tests. However, no significant differences were observed in other areas of cognitive performance such as reasoning, attention, and processing speed.
The researchers suggest that the wasabi and its active compound, 6-MSITC, may have a specific impact on the hippocampus, a region of the brain crucial for memory function.
“This study suggests that the intake of 6-MSITC for 12 weeks can enhance working and episodic memory functions in healthy older adults,” the researchers wrote in their published paper.
Moving forward, the research team plans to delve deeper into the biological and molecular mechanisms behind the observed effects. Future investigations will focus on measuring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers to gain a clearer understanding of the wasabi’s impact.
Despite the limitations of this study, the results indicate a clear association between 6-MSITC-containing wasabi and improved memory function. Simple dietary choices, such as incorporating foods like wasabi that are beneficial for the brain, can play a significant role in maintaining cognitive health as we age.
The researchers noted that older adults with lower cognitive performance often face daily challenges in activities such as shopping, banking, and cooking. Thus, improving cognitive function in this population is of paramount importance.
The study has been published in the scientific journal Nutrients, highlighting the potential benefits of incorporating wasabi into our diets as we age.