A recent study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that older adults who consume greater amounts of spermidine—a compound found in foods like aged cheese, mushrooms, and whole grains—tend to perform better on cognitive function tests. This finding offers a promising dietary strategy for Thailand’s rapidly aging society, where cognitive decline and dementia are growing health concerns.
The research team, led by a scientist affiliated with a U.S. university, analyzed data from over 2,600 Americans aged 60 and above, using the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Participants reported their diets through two 24-hour dietary recall interviews and completed four standardized cognitive assessments. The results showed a clear trend: those in the highest quarter for spermidine intake consistently achieved better cognitive test scores than peers with lower intake. Notably, the beneficial link was most pronounced in males, non-Hispanic whites, individuals classified as somewhat overweight (BMI 25–30), and those with hypertension or high cholesterol (PsyPost).
Spermidine is a naturally occurring polyamine found in all living cells. In the body, it promotes cellular growth, maintenance, and the elimination of damaged components, a process known as autophagy. Experimental studies have linked spermidine to anti-aging effects and heart health, but its levels decline with age—a factor believed to contribute to increased vulnerability to age-related diseases, including dementia and other cognitive disorders (Wikipedia: Spermidine).
Thai readers may be interested to learn that many staple foods in Thai diets, such as mushrooms, soy products, legumes, green peas, whole grains, and certain fruits like grapefruit, are naturally rich in spermidine. Fermented foods, which are prevalent in regional cuisines such as Isaan’s pla ra or fermented soybeans in the North, also contain notable amounts of the compound. Dietary supplements of spermidine are available, but researchers emphasize the importance of obtaining nutrients from balanced, natural diets.
The study found that the association was stronger in men and those with moderate overweight, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia. “This study provides evidence supporting the association between higher dietary SPD [spermidine] intake and improved cognitive performance in older adults,” the authors concluded. “The protective effect was more pronounced in certain subgroups, particularly in males, non-Hispanic whites, and individuals with specific chronic conditions. These findings suggest that SPD may be a valuable component in dietary strategies aimed at improving cognitive health in older adults and populations with chronic diseases.” However, they cautioned that the observational design means the results cannot directly prove that spermidine causes better cognitive function. It is possible that people with better memory and thinking skills are more able to select and prepare nutritious foods, including those high in spermidine.
This limitation highlights the need for further clinical trials to clarify whether spermidine supplementation or dietary changes can genuinely slow cognitive decline. Previous research, such as studies from European universities, has also suggested that higher levels of spermidine intake are linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease and may support memory in animal models (PubMed: Spermidine supplementation), but comprehensive human trials remain limited.
For Thailand, where the proportion of citizens aged 60 and older is projected to reach over 20% by 2025 (NSO Thailand), preventing dementia and promoting mental clarity in the elderly is now a public health priority. The Ministry of Public Health has promoted national campaigns on cognitive health, emphasizing exercise, lifelong learning, and diet, but spermidine has rarely figured in the official conversation.
Nutrition experts at leading Thai hospitals have commented that these findings, while preliminary, reinforce the value of a diverse diet high in whole, unprocessed foods—an idea deeply ingrained in traditional Thai eating patterns. “Thai cuisine emphasizes balance and variety, including lots of vegetables, legumes, and fermented foods, all of which can be sources of spermidine. Encouraging seniors to maintain such eating habits could help support cognitive well-being,” explained a geriatrician at a government hospital.
Yet, challenges remain. Urbanization, busy lifestyles, and the popularity of processed convenience foods may steer many away from the traditional, nutrient-rich diet of generations past. Promoting awareness of dietary components like spermidine might encourage a return to wholesome, locally sourced meals, benefiting both individual health and Thailand’s agricultural economy.
Historical Thai culinary traditions offer precedents for integrating these recommendations. Meals often feature a balanced mix of stir-fried vegetables, legumes, and fermented side dishes. Dishes such as stir-fried tofu with mushrooms, fermented rice noodles (khanom jeen), or soybean-based snacks could be particularly beneficial for elderly Thais looking to boost their spermidine intake naturally, while also honoring cultural heritage.
Looking ahead, researchers in the field are calling for large-scale randomized clinical trials to test whether increasing spermidine directly improves memory and thinking skills, or if it merely signals better overall nutrition and health habits. If a causal link is confirmed, it could pave the way for food-based public health interventions tailored to the needs of Thailand’s aging population.
For now, older adults in Thailand can take simple yet effective steps: focus on dietary diversity, incorporate more foods known to be rich in spermidine, and maintain an overall balanced diet. Health professionals advise against rushing to supplements without medical guidance, as natural sources also supply a range of other beneficial nutrients. Families supporting aging relatives should encourage home-cooked meals featuring traditional recipes packed with legumes, mushrooms, and fermented ingredients.
As cognitive health becomes more central in policymaking, public education, and family life, this new research underscores the potential of accessible, affordable dietary shifts to help Thailand’s elderly maintain mental sharpness and independence for longer.
Sources:
PsyPost—Older adults consuming more spermidine have better cognitive performance
Wikipedia: Spermidine
PubMed—Spermidine, cognition and aging
National Statistical Office of Thailand