Who would have thought that Camembert could benefit your brain? A groundbreaking Japanese study shows that this soft cheese improves memory and learning thanks to active compounds it produces during the fermentation process.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers used a careful methodology using mice, cognitive tests, and insights into the molecular mechanisms of the brain. Who would have thought that behind that white rind lies a potential ally for your brain? Mice and Men…and Camembert: A Well-Thought-Out Approach
To test the cognitive effects of Camembert, researchers fed mice daily for seven days Camembert cheese, myristamide (a fatty acid amide compound formed during fermentation), or other related substances.
After consuming the supplement, the mice underwent two behavioral tests well known in cognitive research:
Object Recognition Test (ORT):
Mice were placed in an open field with two identical objects. In the second phase, one of the objects was replaced by a new object. The time the mice spent exploring the new object was measured. The longer the exploration, the better the recognition memory. Object Localization Test (OLT): The location of a familiar object was changed. The time spent exploring this moved object was used to assess spatial memory.
Camembert improves memory and learning
Mice fed Camembert as a dietary supplement showed a significant improvement in performance on the ORT. Interestingly, this effect was dose-dependent, with mice fed the highest dose of Camembert performing best.
On the other hand, myristamide was superior in both the ORT and OLT. Not only was object recognition improved, but spatial memory was also increased. The study found that the beneficial effects of myristamide are directly related to its amidated structure, a key feature of this compound produced by cheese fermentation. In comparison, its precursor, myristic acid, did not produce any cognitive effects, highlighting the importance of the chemical change process caused by Camembert.
The biology behind the cognitive benefits
Going further, the researchers analyzed changes in the brain chemistry of the mice, focusing on the hippocampus, a brain region important for memory and learning. They measured the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes neuronal growth, repair, and plasticity. The results are clear: myristamide significantly increased BDNF expression, thereby improving synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. Notably, the effects of Camembert on cognitive function are consistent with those of myristamide, suggesting that myristamide may be one of the most important active ingredients in cheese.
Camembert and a Promising Future for Your Brain
This study sheds new light on the potential role of Camembert as a food that can support brain health. By improving recognition memory, spatial memory, and neuroplasticity, this cheese appears to be more than just a tasty treat. However, the researchers caution that further human studies are needed to confirm these effects. In the meantime, why not savor the Camembert and dream of a better brain? But be careful: this is not an excuse to make cheese a religion. Watching TikTok while eating Camembert will not make you a genius!