Daily fiber supplementation improves brain function in older adults in just 3 months 

A recent study  highlighted the potential cognitive benefits of  daily fiber supplementation in older adults, showing significant improvements in brain function in just 12 weeks. 

The study, conducted by a team of researchers including Mary Ní Locrine, involved twins over the age of 65, and found that a simple, inexpensive fiber supplement could improve performance on a memory test often used to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease. 

The discovery points to the widespread impact of gut health on cognitive function and suggests that the gut microbiome may play an important role in maintaining brain health as we age.

The research team focused on the effects of prebiotic fibers such as inulin and fructooligo saccharides (FOS), which are known to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. The study involved 36 pairs of twins,  one of whom received a placebo for three months and the other a daily  fiber supplement. 

This double-blind, randomized controlled trial ensured that the results were not subject to placebo effects or bias. Participants were monitored remotely through video calls, online questionnaires, and a battery of cognitive tests, including the Paired Associates Learning Test. 

The role of the gut microbiome in brain health 

One of the key findings of the study was a significant change in the composition of the gut microbiome in participants who took the fiber supplement. The formulation increased beneficial bacteria such as bifido bacteria, which are known to have a positive effect on health. "The fiber supplement led to significant changes in the composition of the participants' gut microbiome," the study said, highlighting the increase in beneficial bacteria such as bifido bacteria. 

The researchers believe that these changes in the gut microbiome may have contributed to the observed improvement in cognitive function.  The gut-brain axis, a complex communication network connecting the digestive tract and the brain, plays a key role in regulating various bodily functions, including mood and cognitive processes. This study suggests that improving gut health through nutritional interventions may  support brain health and potentially delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. 

 Future research and its implications 

The promising results of this study highlight the potential of fiber to support cognitive health in older adults, particularly through its effects on the gut microbiome. The study design also demonstrates the feasibility of conducting such studies remotely, which is particularly beneficial when targeting older adults with mobility or health limitations. 

The researchers plan to continue their work by studying whether these cognitive benefits persist over time and in larger, more diverse populations. They are also interested in studying other nutritional interventions that may have similar effects on the gut-brain axis. 

The researchers said they hope that a deeper understanding of the gut-brain connection will open new approaches to help people live longer, healthier lives, highlighting the broader implications for public health and aging. 

 This study could open the door to new preventive strategies against cognitive decline and provide a simple, affordable way to improve quality of life in older adults.