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New research by the University of Southern Queensland found that spice may be the secret to dementia prevention.
Researchers are investigating how capsaicin, a molecule found in chillies, can affect brain health.
Tammy Thornton, an Honours student involved in the trial, said capsaicin was being used for this trial because it was shown to improve some of the risk factors that can lead to reduced brain health and dementia.
“We found in humans that capsaicin can reduce fat mass and blood pressure in humans,” Ms Thornton said.
“In animal models, capsaicin has been found to improve cognition, improve memory, and reduce Alzheimer’s plaques that were formed.”
“It’s a world-first, so this is a really exciting study.”
Around 70 per cent of aged care residents lived with moderate to severe cognitive impairments, including dementia.
In 2023, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimated that more than 400,000 Australians lived with dementia.
Without a breakthrough, that number will jump to 900,000 in the next 25 years.
Ms Thornton said those statistics and the future of older Australians highlighted the importance of this research.
“I think we all probably know – or have known – somebody who’s been affected by dementia or neurodegenerative disease,” she said.
“There is no cure for dementia at the moment, but I’m hoping this study can form a basis of preventative medicine for dementia.”
Dr Edward Bliss, a researcher involved in the trial, said the trial would also help those in the community.
“Dementia is killing more people in Australia than heart disease and cancer, and it’s a particular issue for those residing around UniSQ, particularly the West Moreton and Darling Downs area,” Dr Bliss said.
“The predicted increase in dementia-related cases is 400-550 per cent in the next 30 years.”
The pilot trial will be a world-first human trial to assess the effects of capsaicin on brain health, specifically brain blood vessel function and cognition.
The trial will take place across the University’s Toowoomba and Ipswich campuses over 12 weeks.
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