Researchers have discovered a key to enhancing memory: a popular food that strengthens cognitive function.

A recent study conducted by scientists has revealed that compounds found in Camembert cheese, particularly myristamide, may support cognitive health. Research carried out on mice indicated that this fatty acid amide enhances memory and brain function, especially in those on a high-fat diet, as reported by News Medical.

The findings from the study, published in the journal Neuroscience Research, demonstrated that myristamide boosts the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential for neurogenesis and synaptic connectivity. Fermented products, including Camembert, have long been recognized by scientists for their preservative properties, and more recently for their potential health benefits.

These products, generated through the enzymatic interaction of microorganisms, produce compounds that are not naturally present in the unprocessed item. Amid growing global concerns regarding the rise in dementia cases and the links between conditions such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, the research emphasizes the importance of dietary interventions for enhancing brain health, according to the study’s author, Ogura Kohei, an associate professor in the Department of Food Science and Biotechnology at the Graduate School of Agricultural Science.

The methodology included controlled experiments with male mice divided into groups, each receiving different treatments, including cheese and specific fatty acids. Their cognitive functions were assessed using object recognition and location determination tests. The results showed significant improvement in the mice that were fed Camembert and those that were administered myristamide.

These benefits were dose-dependent, with myristamide outperforming its non-amidated counterpart, myristic acid, in enhancing memory. Further analysis revealed the role of myristamide in increasing BDNF levels in the hippocampus—a region crucial for memory and learning. Oleamide, another fatty acid amide, also exhibited similar benefits, highlighting the significance of the amidation process for these cognitive effects.

Previous studies in humans have linked Camembert to reduced levels of amyloid-beta, indicating its broader neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory potential. Myristamide, as a key component, offers promising prospects for dietary strategies aimed at preserving memory and neuroprotection. Future research by scientists will likely focus on exploring its applications for human health and the mechanisms underlying these benefits.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, be sure to consult a doctor.