A microalgae ingredient marketed by MicroPhyt as Brainphyt was associated with significant improvements in a variety of cognitive health measures, in a clinical study published in Nutrients.
 
The ingredient, derived from the microalgae Phaeodactylum triconutum Mi136.M1.a contains a unique, patented composition of active compounds.
 
The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involved 43 healthy, physically-active adults between 55 and 75 who reported experiencing memory and cognitive decline. Over 12 weeks, participants received either a placebo or a daily dose of 1100 mg of the algae ingredient. They were given a battery of cognitive tests and provided blood samples at baseline, and again at four and 12 weeks to evaluate effects of supplementation. They were tested for improvements in executive function, attention, and short- and long-term memory, and the study also measured self-reported stress, mood, sleep quality, and potential side effects.
 
Compared to placebo, participants who supplemented with BrainPhyt saw significant improvements in episodic memory, reaction times, attention, vigilance, and executive function, as well as improved insulin sensitivity, the latter of which is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and overall cognitive health.
 
Participants who took the supplement also reported significant improvements in sleep, including increased calmness, ease of awakening, and better alertness upon waking up.
 
There were no self-reported adverse effects, or negative effects on clinical blood markers.
 
“As fucoxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier and appears to support cognitive function through a combination of mechanisms,” said Jonathan Maury, PhD, clinical research manager of Microphyt. “Based on existing literature, its benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, enhanced insulin sensitivity, support of neuronal health and synaptic plasticity, reduction of perceived stress, and improved sleep quality.”
 
“These findings suggest that BrainPhyt supplementation may play a role in mitigating early signs of cognitive decline in healthy older individuals,” said Richard Kreider, PhD, study author and professor at the department of kinesiology and sports management at Texas A&M University. “This research contributes to the growing body of evidence that nutritional interventions can support brain health and cognitive function as we age.”