(PatriotWise.com) — According to a recent study, eating fermented foods like sauerkraut could improve cognitive function, since they help modulate the release of neurotransmitters, The Epoch Times reported.
For example, sauerkraut contains choline, which is essential for the production of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter involved in muscle control, memory, and circadian rhythm. Research has also shown that acetylcholine could be effective in protecting against Alzheimer’s disease.
Additionally, fermented foods are a source of tryptophan, an amino acid used in the manufacture of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Tryptophan is also essential in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in a variety of brain functions, including mood.
The bacteria used to ferment food continues living in the food so long as they do not get killed by additional processing. These fermented foods are called “probiotics,” which are a simple, inexpensive way to improve brain health, mood, and gut health.
According to research, eating fermented foods could have both short-term and long-term impacts on brain function, improving mood and reducing stress.
Researchers in Ireland are conducting a study to determine which fermented foods offer the most benefits to brain health by comparing data from over 200 fermented foods worldwide, searching for metabolites known to improve brain function.
While the Irish study is only in the preliminary stages, the researchers are optimistic about the results so far.
According to one of the authors of the study, of the 200 fermented foods already tested, nearly all of them showed an “ability to exert some sort of potential” for improving both brain and gut health, in particular, sugar-based and vegetable-based fermented products.
As the study progresses, researchers hope to release preliminary results to the public. One of the study’s authors suggested that people should consider adding fermented foods to their diet to support general well-being and brain health.
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