Imagine your brain is a library, and ginseng is the energetic librarian keeping all the memories organized. A recent study investigated the relationship between ginseng intake and Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-specific cognition in older adults. Specifically, researchers wanted to see how ginseng affected delayed episodic memory, which is one of the earliest cognitive changes associated with AD. They gathered a group of 160 older adults without dementia and examined their dietary habits, cognitive functioning, and apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE4) genotype. The results showed that ginseng intake was linked to better delayed episodic memory, but not non-memory cognition. Interestingly, the impact of ginseng varied based on APOE4 status. In participants who were APOE4-negative, ginseng intake improved delayed episodic memory, while there was no significant effect seen in those who were APOE4-positive. Additionally, the benefits of ginseng were more pronounced in individuals who had taken it for at least five years and started in midlife (before age 65). These findings suggest that ginseng could potentially slow down AD-specific cognitive decline, but its effectiveness may depend on genetic factors. If you’re curious to learn more about this fascinating research, check out the full article!
BackgroundThe probable association among ginseng intake, Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-specific cognition, and apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE4) remains poorly investigated. Hence, we examined the association between ginseng intake and AD-specific cognition in older adults under the moderating effect of APOE4 status.MethodsThis study enrolled 160 adults aged 65–90 years without dementia. All participants underwent comprehensive dietary and clinical assessments including ginseng intake, AD-related cognition (i.e., delayed episodic memory, as the earliest cognitive change in AD), and non-memory cognition for comparative purposes.ResultsGinseng intake was associated with higher delayed episodic memory, but not non-memory cognition, compared to no ginseng intake. The interaction between ginseng intake and APOE4 status had a significant effect on delayed episodic memory. Subgroup analyses showed that ginseng intake was associated with higher delayed episodic memory in the APOE4-negative but not the APOE4-positive subgroup. The benefits of ginseng intake on delayed episodic memory were prominent in the high duration (≥5 years) and midlife onset (<65 years) groups.ConclusionOur study of older adults with no dementia suggests that ginseng intake (with high duration and midlife onset) had a beneficial effect on AD-specific cognitive decline, i.e., the delayed episodic memory. In addition, APOE4 status moderates the association between ginseng intake status and AD-specific cognitive decline.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.