Recent studies have highlighted the potential cognitive benefits of taking a daily fiber supplement in older adults, showing significant improvements in brain function in just 12 weeks.
The study, conducted by a team of researchers including Mary Née Loughran, involved twins over the age of 65 and found that a simple, inexpensive fiber supplement could improve performance on memory tests often used to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
The findings demonstrate the broader impact of gut health on cognitive function and suggest that the gut microbiota may play an important role in maintaining brain health as we age.
Study design and results
The research team: Prebiotic FiberInulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are known to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Thirty-six pairs of twins participated in the study, one of which placebo The other took a fiber supplement daily for three months.
This double-blind, randomized controlled trial ensured that the results were not influenced by: Placebo effect Participants were monitored remotely through video calls, online questionnaires and a battery of cognitive tests. Pair Associate Learning Test.
The test is particularly sensitive for early detection of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s Disease ResearchThe results showed that the group taking the fiber supplement performed significantly better and made fewer errors on these tests compared to the placebo group. “These positive results in just 12 weeks hold great promise for improving brain health and memory in an ageing population,” the researchers commented.
The role of the gut microbiome in brain health
One of the main findings of this study is that Composition of the intestinal flora Ten percent of participants who took the fiber supplement reported that the supplement increased beneficial bacteria. Bifidobacteriawhich is known to have positive effects health“The dietary fiber supplement led to significant changes in the composition of the participants’ gut microbiota,” the study noted, highlighting an increase in beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria.
The researchers found that these changes Intestinal flora This may have contributed to the observed improvements in cognitive function.
of Gut-brain axis“The intestine, a complex communication network linking the digestive tract and the brain, plays a key role in regulating a variety of bodily functions, including mood and cognitive processes. This study suggests that enhancing gut health through dietary intervention may support brain health and delay the onset of dementia.” Neurodegenerative diseases.
Future research and its implications
The promising results of this study show that dietary fiber Supporting cognitive health Health outcomes may be improved in older adults, particularly through effects on the gut microbiota. The study design also demonstrates the feasibility of conducting such studies remotely, which may be particularly beneficial when targeting older adults who may have mobility or health limitations.
The researchers: These cognitive benefits “The findings will persist for longer periods of time and in larger, more diverse populations. The researchers are also interested in investigating other dietary interventions that may have a similar effect on the gut-brain axis.”
“We hope that a better understanding of the gut-brain connection will lead to new approaches to help people live longer, healthier lives,” the researchers said. Public Health and Ageing.
This study opens the door to new preventive strategies against cognitive decline, potentially offering a simple and affordable approach. Improve quality of life Towards an aging society.
