Mixed Spices for Memory

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byZhaoping Li

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Recruiting

Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The aging process entails a multitude of structural and functional alterations within the brain, culminating in a gradual and progressive decline in cognitive function. Recent research has indicated that various spices may hold the key to enhancing brain health and combating the effects of aging on cognitive abilities. The hypothesis is that a mixture of spices, acknowledged for their reported memory protection potential, may yield a more potent beneficial effect on memory function than a single spice. The spice mixture will be used at culinary dose, and therefore side effects are anticipated. In this study, the effects of spice mixture will be evaluated, as well as their anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The proposed pilot study will include 50 adults (ages 50-80), exhibiting typical age-related mild cognitive decline, excluding dementia or major neurocognitive disorders. They will be randomized 1:1 assigned into a daily intake of either 4.00 g spice mixture capsules or 4.00 g maltodextrin capsules over 3 months, and explore the sustainable effect over 3 additional months. The changes in symptoms of cognition, fatigue, and mood symptoms of the spice group vs. placebo group will be compared. The outcome of the investigation of the effects of mixed spice consumption will provide important novel information on dietary recommendation of spice to preserve cognitive function in aging population.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults aged 50-80 experiencing mild cognitive decline due to aging, but not suffering from dementia or major neurocognitive disorders. Participants will be given either a spice mixture or a placebo daily for three months and monitored for an additional three months.

Inclusion Criteria

My cognitive issues are due to normal aging or mild cognitive impairment.

I can see and hear well enough for brain function tests.

Screening laboratory tests without significant abnormalities that might interfere with the study

+1 more

Exclusion Criteria

Current diagnosis of any major psychiatric disorder according to the DSM-IV TR criteria

Frequently using prebiotics, probiotics, yogurt, and/or any fiber supplements

I have a condition that could cause my thinking or memory to get worse.

+7 more

Participant Groups

The study tests if consuming a mix of spices known for memory protection can improve cognitive function in older adults. It compares the effects of daily intake of spice capsules against placebo over six months, focusing on cognition, fatigue, and mood.

2Treatment groups

Active Control

Placebo Group

Group I: Mixed spicesActive Control1 Intervention

Group II: PlaceboPlacebo Group1 Intervention