Scientists at the National University of Distance Education in Madrid found that a milk supplement prevented age-related cognitive decline in aged mice. The research was published in the journal International Food Research.
Aging is associated with declines in cognitive abilities, particularly memory and executive functions. Some research suggests that inadequate dietary intake of certain phospholipids may increase the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in the future. The source of these substances may be nutritional supplements derived from milk fat membrane concentrate (MFGM).
Compared with control animals, MFGM-treated rats showed better spatial working memory. The effects were not related to spatial learning ability and emotional memory. No significant difference was found between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. On the other hand, MFGM-treated rats had significant changes in the composition of nerve cell membranes, as well as an increase in the content of EPA and DHA acids at synapses.
While more research is needed to confirm the scientists’ conclusions, this study suggests that MFGM supplements could be used as a supplement to restore the proper concentration of certain bioactive lipids in the brain and prevent or slow the progression of age-related cognitive impairment.