What happens to your body when you eat wasabi

Wasabi can be good for your health when consumed in small quantities. It contains compounds called isothiocyanates, which are responsible for its pungent, pungent taste. These compounds can reduce inflammation and help fight bacteria. However, most wasabi served in restaurants is not authentic.

Besides its flavor, wasabi can help slow the growth of harmful bacteria, which is part of the reason it’s often served with raw fish.

One study found that wasabi reduced E.coli And Staphylococcus aureustwo types of bacteria that commonly cause foodborne illness. However, further research is needed to confirm these results.

Wasabi may help reduce inflammation, which could protect cells from damage over time. Test-tube studies suggest it may achieve this by blocking pathways that trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals. However, more human research is needed.

Compounds in wasabi may support brain health by helping protect nerve cells from damage.

In a small study of older adults, wasabi extract was associated with improved working memory, such as remembering a person’s name long enough to use it in conversation. Episodic memory, or the ability to recall past events or experiences, also improved.

However, this study used a concentrated supplement, so it’s unclear whether consuming small amounts of wasabi would have the same effects.

Some test-tube and animal studies suggest that compounds found in wasabi, including isothiocyanates, may help slow the growth of cancer cells. However, this research is still in its early stages and there is no evidence that wasabi alone can prevent or treat cancer in humans. Further human studies are needed.

Eating small amounts of wasabi is safe for most people. Consuming large amounts may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising, especially in people with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulant medications.

Other potential side effects include:

• Burning in the mouth or nose
• Stomach irritation
• Heartburn

Real wasabi is much less common, but there are ways to tell the difference.

• Look at the color and texture. Real wasabi has a softer natural green color and is often freshly grated, giving it a slightly grainy texture. Imitation wasabi is usually bright green and very smooth.
• Notice how the heat fades. Authentic wasabi has a more subtle heat that fades quickly. Imitation wasabi tends to have a stronger burn that lasts longer.
• Check ingredient lists. Products made from real wasabi are often listed Wasabia from Japan or wasabi root as an ingredient. Many tubes labeled “wasabi” contain primarily horseradish.
• Ask restaurants. If a restaurant serves real wasabi, it is often mentioned on the menu. If you’re not sure, you can always ask.