Fish has long been hailed as “brain food,” presumably for its high levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. But brain scientists have uncovered another reason for fish’s brain-boosting benefits: The natural pigment in salmon, shrimp, and crab — called astaxanthin (ASX) — has been shown to boost memory and mental sharpness.

In research that sheds new light on how nutrients enhance brain health, researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that ASX is a strong antioxidant that improved both learning and memory in laboratory experiments involving mice.

Lead researchers Hideaki Soya and Randeep Rakwal said the naturally derived pigment ASX is a potent "brain food" and holds promise as a next-generation natural supplement.

The team now plans to conduct new research to uncover the molecular mechanism behind ASX action, which could help lead to the development of medical foods and new drugs based on the researchers’ findings.