Can Fiber Supplements Boost Brainpower in Seniors?
Could a simple dietary change be the key to sharper minds as we age?
A groundbreaking twin study conducted at King’s College London suggests that daily doses of inexpensive plant-based fibers may offer a natural way to enhance memory and cognitive function in individuals over 60. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, could have profound implications for combating age-related cognitive decline and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Researchers enrolled 36 pairs of twins over 60 and divided them randomly. One twin in each pair received a daily dose of inulin or FOS (fructooligosaccharides), two common prebiotic fibers found in many plant foods. Their sibling received a placebo.
After 12 weeks, the twins who consumed the prebiotic fibers consistently scored higher on memory tests used to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. These tests evaluated visual memory and learning abilities.
"We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks," said Mary Ni Lochlainn, a specialist in geriatric medicine at King’s College London, when the study was released in March. "This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our aging population. Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer."
delving into the "Why"
The study offers compelling evidence for a fascinating connection between our gut health and brain function. Prebiotics act as "food" for beneficial bacteria residing in our intestines, promoting their growth and activity. These beneficial bacteria, in turn, appear to play a role in maintaining cognitive sharpness.
"These plant fibers, which are cheap and available over the counter, could benefit a wide group of people in these cash-strapped times. They are safe and acceptable too," stated geriatrician Claire Steves at KCL.
Past research has shown that certain beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, are increased by prebiotic intake and have been linked to improved cognitive function in both animals and humans.
The scientists also noted subtle shifts in the gut microbiome of twins taking the prebiotic supplements, including a rise in Bifidobacterium. This bacteria has been shown to reduce cognitive deficits in animal studies by potentially regulating the communication pathways between the gut and brain, known as the gut-brain axis.
However, the study found no significant impact on muscular strength and function.
Future Research
While the results are promising, researchers emphasize the need for larger, longer-term studies to confirm these findings and explore the long-term effects of prebiotic supplementation on brain health.
If further research supports these initial findings, prebiotic fiber supplements could become a safe and affordable tool for individuals aiming to maintain cognitive health as they age.
