Dietary Supplement Urolithin A Linked to Increased Brain Blood Flow in Trial

A dietary supplement known as urolithin A has been found to boost blood circulation to the brain during cognitive exertion among middle-aged adults with obesity, according to a University of Oklahoma study published in JAMA Network Open. Researchers investigated the compound to see if it could counteract vascular changes associated with obesity that typically impact bodily circulation, including blood flow to the brain.

The randomized clinical trial tracked 50 participants aged 40 to 64 who consumed either 1,000 milligrams of urolithin A daily or a placebo over a four-week period. Scientists observed that individuals taking the supplement experienced greater blood flow to the brain—specifically in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area vital for working memory—while engaging in a demanding memory task. Despite the enhanced cerebrovascular response, the trial did not reveal significant changes in arm blood vessel function or measurable gains in cognitive performance during the tests.

Urolithin A is naturally generated when specific gut microbes process compounds found in foods such as walnuts, pomegranates, and strawberries. Natural production levels differ among individuals and tend to decline alongside aging and higher body mass index, though the compound is also sold in supplement form. While the substance was well-tolerated by participants, investigators emphasized that the findings stem from a relatively small, single-site trial.

What to know: While urolithin A may support healthy brain blood flow during mental activity, more extensive and prolonged studies are required to determine if these vascular changes translate into long-term cognitive benefits. Always consult a healthcare professional before altering your supplement regimen or making major health decisions.