As we age, our cognitive functions are altered and worsen. We have less agility and mental clarity and memory problems arise. To this we must add the consequences of degenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's.
To keep the brain in top shape, we can choose to do certain exercises that stimulate it, such as doing puzzles, as well as other logic or memory games. Likewise, diet plays a fundamental role in cognitive health. It is well known that certain foods such as sardines and walnuts are good for nourishing memory, as well as the importance of not abusing alcohol.
But there is a less popular food in the Spanish diet that it is advisable to start consuming more often, in addition to its health benefits: wasabi. Wasabi is a spice or condiment typical of Japanese cuisine. It stands out for its intense, bitter and spicy flavor and is used as a condiment, especially in fish dishes such as sushi.
A study carried out in Japan and published in the journal Nutrients has corroborated that wasabi has notable benefits for memory in older adults. The research echoes previous studies that demonstrated the positive effects of spices and herbs on cognition. In this context, they investigated the positive impact of wasabi on cognitive functions.
The main bioactive compound in wasabi is 6-MSITC (6-methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate), which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which play an important role in cognitive health.
The randomized controlled trial sampled 72 people aged 60 and older. The volunteers were divided into two groups, one half was offered a 6-MSITC supplement for daily intake for 12 weeks, while the other half were given a placebo.
A wide range of cognitive performances were verified in the periods before and after the intervention. As a result, the group that consumed 6-MSITC showed a significant improvement in working and episodic memory performance, compared to the placebo group. Although no significant improvements were found in other cognitive domains.
The researchers did observe that those who consumed wasabi supplements showed better results in association tests – such as associating names with faces – while those who took the placebo did not show cognitive improvements. Thus, according to the study's conclusions, taking 0.8 milligrams of 6-MSITC for 12 weeks significantly improved memory functioning, including episodic and working memory, compared to the placebo group.
