Effect of dried-bonito broth on peripheral blood flow in humans: Relationship to improvement of mood states

Abstract

1. Dried-bonito broth (DBB) has been shown to have various physiological effects to reduce fatigue in both animals and humans. 2. To evaluate whether DBB can improve peripheral blood circulation and improve mood states, a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study was performed in healthy female subjects. 3. As a result of 2 weeks' intervention with DBB, subjects showed improved mood states and increased peripheral blood flow. 4. Changes in blood flow during DBB ingestion were significantly correlated with total mood disturbance (r = -0.38, P < 0.05): blood flow increased in subjects whose mental states were markedly improved. No significant correlations were found for placebo ingestion. The results suggest that DBB might improve mental condition by increasing blood flow; that is, by enhancing peripheral circulation. © 2007 The Authors.