Cognitive (brain) function, especially memory, gradually declines during ageing, which may in part be caused by an increase in systemic inflammation as well as a reduction in vascular functions and cerebral blood flow. Blood inflammatory mediators such as c-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) found to be significantly higher among people over 65 years compared to younger age groups.
Anthocyanins is water-soluble compounds giving blue, purple and red colours in fruits and vegetables. Anthocyanins have been demonstrated to improve cognitive function, inhibit inflammation, and protect cardiovascular health. Black rice contains high amounts of anthocyanins mainly cyanidin 3-glucoside and peonidin 3-glucoside as well as various nutritional compounds such as carbohydrate, vitamin B, vitamin E and fibre. Previous studies reported health benefits of black rice, including anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, anti-diabetes, and improved cognitive function. However, the effect of black rice consumption on cognitive function related to inflammation has not been studied in humans.
Therefore, this study aims evaluate the acute \& short-term effects of black rice consumption on the cognitive function, inflammation, and vascular function in older adults aged 50-80 years.
The primary and secondary research questions of this study will address:
1. Do the acute and short-term anthocyanin-rich black rice intakes improve cognitive function in older adults aged 50-80 years? 2. Do the acute and short-term anthocyanin-rich black rice intakes modulate inflammatory status and microvascular function in older adults aged 50-80 years?
Aged 50-80 years
General healthy status
Body Mass Index (BMI)18.5-35 kg/m2
Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, ibuprofen)
Having sign of infections or acute inflammation (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat, nasal congestion, moderate-severe pain, swelling-redness)
Received antibiotics within the past 3 months
Taking dietary supplements (e.g., vitamins, minerals) at high doses (e.g., more than 200% of the UK's reference nutrient intakes)