A new study from Japan has shown that blended antioxidants may improve cognition and memory while suppressing age-related muscle decline in mice. The antioxidant blend used in the study was provided by a supplement marketed in Japan. Experts caution against creating one’s own blended antioxidants at home, as it may be dangerous. While mouse studies have shown cognitive benefits from blended antioxidants, significant human studies are lacking.
Antioxidants are important for cell health as they help reduce the damage caused by unstable free radical molecules. Oxidative stress, which occurs when there are too many free radicals, has been linked to various health issues. Antioxidants can be found naturally in plants or as supplements. The Japanese researchers used a blended antioxidant product called Twendee X, which contains eight different types of antioxidants formulated by Professor Haruhiko Inufusa at Gifu University.
In the study, older mice were given the blended antioxidant in water for a month. They showed improvements in spatial cognition, short-term memory, and muscle durability compared to the control group. The mice that received the supplements also ran longer distances on treadmills. Post-mortem examination of their brains revealed a decrease in enzyme levels related to muscle damage and total cholesterol values. The study was published in MDPI.
Blended antioxidants have been studied for their cognitive benefits, particularly in mouse models. While there have been some promising results, human studies are still needed to confirm these findings. It is not recommended to create your own blend of antioxidants from existing supplements, as it can be dangerous due to potential interactions, toxicity risks, and inaccurate dosages. Eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods is a safer way to replicate the effects of blended antioxidants.
Research has shown that antioxidants from foods like broccoli, blueberries, and dark chocolate can support cognition. The study found that blended antioxidants not only improved cognitive function but also seemed to suppress age-related muscle decline in mice. The blend may have a positive effect on mitochondria and muscle tissue, potentially helping to prevent frailty and sarcopenia associated with aging. However, more research is needed to determine if these findings can be generalized to humans.
Blended antioxidants may also have potential applications in addressing symptoms like “brain fog” associated with long COVID. The antioxidants’ antioxidant properties could help alleviate oxidative stress in muscles induced by exercise, aiding in recovery and strengthening muscles. Further human trials are necessary to validate the effects of blended antioxidants on cognitive function, muscle strength, and other health benefits.
