Wasabi: The Memory-Boosting Ingredient You Need
A study conducted by researchers at Tohoku University in Japan has found that consuming genuine wasabi can significantly improve both short- and long-term memory. The study involved 72 healthy subjects aged 60 to 80, with half of them taking 100 milligrams of wasabi extract at bedtime and the rest receiving a placebo. After three months, the group that received the wasabi treatment showed substantial improvements in working memory and episodic memory compared to the placebo group. The researchers believe that the active component in wasabi, 6-MSITC, reduces inflammation and oxidant levels in the brain's memory center, the hippocampus, and enhances neural plasticity. However, it's important to note that most wasabi served in sushi restaurants is actually white horseradish dyed green, and genuine wasabi must be consumed fresh to obtain the same benefits.
