Could Chinese takeaways help in the fight against dementia? Controversial additive improves the memory of patients, claim scientists

It's a popular treat on a Friday night for many after a tough week at work because of its unhealthy qualities.

But a Chinese takeaway could actually have a medical benefit - and not just satisfy your taste buds, if new research is to be believed.

Scientists now believe dishes such as chicken chow mein and sweet and sour pork can help patients tackle dementia, the Daily Mail reports.

Japanese researchers conducted tests on 200 patients battling dementia to make the conclusion. 

Participants were split into two groups, depending on whether they consumed MSG, known fully as monosodium glutamate.

The controversial food additive - also found in hot dogs, canned food and crisps, is used as a flavour enhancer to make foods taste better.

However, widespread concerns over its safety has seen it fall out of favour over the past few decades.

In order to compare the two groups, the volunteers were then asked to complete tests on their memory. 

The researchers at Tottori University found participants who consumed MSG daily had slight improvements in memory.

They were able to recall more words in the tests and found it much easier to tell the time, The Sun reports. 

In a report of their findings, the scientists said: 'It seems MSG may activate the hippocampus and improve memory.'

The researchers in Tottori - 150 miles (240km) north east of Hiroshima - were unable to explain why the additive helps memory.

However, it could be because it improves the absorption of zinc, which could, in turn, repair damaged brain cells. 

Figures from charities show there are more than 850,000 people who are currently living with dementia in the UK today.

In the US, there are around 5.5million patients battling Alzheimer's, which is the most common form of the memory-robbing disorder. 

Charities have repeatedly pointed to a plethora of scientific evidence and claimed the opposite of the new findings - saying that a healthy diet can tackle dementia.  

For decades, MSG has been blamed for people experiencing a headache or feeling sick after eating a meal from a Chinese takeaway.

Nicknamed Chinese restaurant syndrome, it has been dismissed as nothing but an 'old wives' tale' by celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal. 

Scientists have not produced convincing evidence of the negative health effects of eating MSG, and it is considered safe to eat.

However, despite its natural occurrence, when MSG is used as an added flavouring, it can have unpleasant effects on people who eat it.