Anserine for Memory: Can It Help Seniors?
Quick Summary: Research suggests that a supplement containing anserine and carnosine might help elderly people remember things better. The study found that taking this supplement for three months improved verbal memory compared to a placebo.
Does Anserine Improve Memory?
Yes, the study found that anserine/carnosine supplementation (ACS) may help preserve verbal memory in older adults. Participants taking the supplement showed better results on memory tests compared to those who didn't. This means they were better at recalling information they had learned.
What The Research Found
The study looked at how anserine/carnosine affected memory in older adults. Here's what they discovered:
- Better Memory: People taking the supplement had better scores on memory tests, specifically for recalling words and stories.
- Reduced Inflammation: The supplement seemed to lower levels of inflammation in the blood, which is linked to brain health.
- Improved Brain Blood Flow: The supplement helped maintain healthy blood flow in a key part of the brain related to memory.
Study Details
- Who was studied: 39 healthy elderly volunteers (ages 60-78).
- How long: The study lasted for 3 months.
- What they took: Participants took 1.0 gram daily of an anserine/carnosine (3:1) formula, or a placebo.
What This Means For You
If you're an older adult, this research suggests that anserine/carnosine might help support your memory. While more research is needed, it could be a promising option to discuss with your doctor.
- Talk to your doctor: Before taking any supplements, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
- Consider your diet: Anserine and carnosine are found in some foods. Eating a balanced diet may support brain health.
Study Limitations
It's important to keep these points in mind:
- Small Study: The study involved a relatively small number of people.
- Short-Term: The study only lasted for three months, so we don't know the long-term effects.
- Healthy Participants: The study focused on healthy older adults, so the results might not apply to everyone.
- More Research Needed: More studies are needed to confirm these findings and understand how anserine/carnosine works.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The study found that daily supplementation with a 3:1 anserine/carnosine (ACS) formula (1.0g/day) significantly preserved delayed recall verbal episodic memory in healthy elderly adults (60–78 years) compared to placebo, as measured by the Wechsler Memory Scale-Logical Memory test (p = 0.0128). Secondary outcomes included reduced blood levels of inflammatory cytokines (CCL-2 and IL-8) and suppression of age-related decline in brain perfusion in the posterior cingulate cortex via arterial spin labeling MRI (p = 0.0248). A second RCT within the study corroborated memory preservation (p = 0.0202). However, the authors emphasize the need for larger, longer-term research to confirm these effects.
Study Design
This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two separate experiments. The primary trial included 39 healthy elderly participants (60–78 years old) randomized 1:1 to ACS or placebo groups. Supplementation lasted 3 months, with pre- and post-intervention assessments. A second RCT was conducted, though specific sample size details were not provided in the summary.
Dosage & Administration
Participants received 1.0g/day of an anserine/carnosine (3:1) formula orally for 3 months. The exact timing (e.g., with meals) or formulation (e.g., capsule vs. powder) was not specified in the provided details.
Results & Efficacy
- Verbal memory: ACS group showed significantly better delayed recall performance than placebo in both RCTs (p = 0.0128 and p = 0.0202).
- Brain perfusion: MRI revealed reduced age-related decline in the posterior cingulate cortex in the ACS group (p = 0.0248).
- Inflammation: Blood analysis noted decreased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines CCL-2 and IL-8 in the ACS group.
All outcomes were statistically significant (p < 0.05), though effect sizes and confidence intervals were not quantified in the summary.
Limitations
- Small sample size: Only 39 participants completed the primary trial, limiting statistical power and generalizability.
- Short duration: The 3-month intervention period does not address long-term efficacy or safety.
- Healthy elderly population: Results may not apply to individuals with cognitive impairment or chronic conditions.
- Unspecified second RCT details: Lack of sample size and methodology for the second trial hinders critical evaluation.
- Mechanistic gaps: While inflammation and perfusion changes were observed, the direct causal link to memory preservation remains unclear.
Clinical Relevance
For healthy elderly adults, ACS supplementation (1.0g/day) may offer short-term benefits for verbal episodic memory and brain perfusion, potentially mitigating age-related cognitive decline. The anti-inflammatory effects observed suggest a possible mechanism, though this requires further validation. Practically, these findings support exploration of ACS as a preventive supplement, but current evidence is insufficient for definitive recommendations. Larger trials in diverse populations (e.g., those with mild cognitive impairment) and longer follow-up periods are needed to assess real-world applicability.
Note: This analysis is specific to the 2016 study (PMID 26682691). Always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
Original Study Reference
Effect of Anserine/Carnosine Supplementation on Verbal Episodic Memory in Elderly People.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2016
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 26682691)