Wasabi Is Linked With , a ‘Really Substantial’ Memory Boost, Study Says.<br />A study conducted by Japan's Tohoku <br />University suggests that short- and long-term <br />memory may be improved by eating wasabi.<br />Wasabi was already known to have <br />"antibiotic, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory <br />properties," 'New York Post' reports.<br />But researchers were "surprised" <br />to witness a "dramatic change" in <br />the cognition of study participants.<br />The improvement <br />was really substantial, Study author Rui Nouchi, an associate professor at the university’s Institute <br />of Development, Aging and Cancer, to CBS News.<br />72 adults aged 60 and older were either given <br />a placebo or a pill containing 6-MSITC, <br />a bioactive compound contained in wasabi.<br />The study tested "executive function, episodic <br />memory, processing speed, working memory <br />and attention" over the course of 12 weeks.<br />Those who ingested 6-MSITC "showed a <br />significant improvement in working and <br />episodic memory performances," Nouchi said.<br />Researchers theorize that the wasabi extract <br />decreased inflammation in the area of the brain <br />that deals with memory, the hippocampus. .<br />If spicy wasabi isn't your thing, these foods <br />have also been shown to boost memory due <br />to the fact that they contain flavanols:.<br />If spicy wasabi isn't your thing, these foods <br />have also been shown to boost memory due <br />to the fact that they contain flavanols:.<br />Dark chocolate, red wine, cherries, blackberries and some teas.<br />Dark chocolate, red wine, cherries, blackberries and some teas.<br />Dark chocolate, red wine, cherries, blackberries and some teas.<br />Dark chocolate, red wine, cherries, blackberries and some teas
