A new study reveals that the traditional Japanese spice wasabi can enhance cognitive function in individuals over 60 years old, providing a delicious and straightforward way to take care of our brains as we age.
The key component responsible for this association is 6 methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC), a bioactive compound found in wasabi that has been previously linked to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby protecting and preventing damage to cells.
While a few studies have demonstrated the cognitive benefits of 6-MSITC, its effects on older adults, who are particularly susceptible to cognitive decline and conditions like dementia, have not been tested.
In their published paper, the researchers state, “Previous studies have suggested that antioxidants and anti-inflammatories play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health among older adults. Therefore, we expect 6-MSITC to positively impact cognitive function in this age group.”
For their trial, the team recruited 72 adults aged over 60 and divided them unknowingly into two groups: one group received a daily dose of a wasabi tablet, while the other group received a placebo tablet.
After 12 weeks, the participants who consumed the wasabi tablets displayed significantly improved performance in episodic memory (recalling past events) and working memory (temporary information retention) based on various cognitive tests. Nevertheless, no significant differences were observed in other cognitive domains such as reasoning, attention, and processing speed. The researchers believe that the effects of wasabi, particularly 6-MSITC, might be specifically targeting the hippocampus, a crucial region of the brain responsible for memory function.
“These findings suggest that 6-MSITC intake over 12 weeks selectively enhances working and episodic memory functions in healthy older adults,” said the researchers.
The team now plans to explore the biological and molecular mechanisms underlying these effects in more detail. As this particular study did not measure antioxidant or anti-inflammatory biomarkers, it can only speculate about the reasons behind the observed effects of wasabi and 6-MSITC.
Despite these limitations, the study clearly establishes a connection between consumption of wasabi containing 6-MSITC and improved memory function. Opting for foods that are beneficial for our overall health and avoiding those that are not can be a simple and relatively easy approach to maintaining a healthy brain as we age.
“Older adults with lower cognitive performance often face difficulties in daily activities such as shopping, banking, and cooking,” added the researchers.
The research has been published in Nutrients.
