It might be time to take fiber.
As individuals age, various bodily functions, including brain activity, tend to slow down naturally. It’s not uncommon for older adults to experience challenges with multitasking, word retrieval, and memory recall as part of healthy aging. However, certain diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s can exacerbate cognitive decline, leading to more severe symptoms such as memory loss, difficulties with problem-solving, communication issues, mood changes, and confusion.
While there’s currently no cure for these conditions, adopting a healthy lifestyle and possibly using specific medications can help slow down their progression. Recently, researchers from King’s College London discovered that taking a dietary fiber supplement might enhance brain function in older adults.
The study, led by Dr. Claire Steves, focused on two prebiotic supplements: inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS). These supplements aim to improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, which may have positive effects on brain and muscle function.
Previous research has shown that inulin and FOS are safe and readily available prebiotic supplements associated with a healthy gut microbiome. Studies have also suggested potential benefits for neurological health, including reduced neuroinflammation and improved cognitive function.
In this study, 36 pairs of twins over 60 years old participated. One twin in each pair received a daily dietary fiber supplement for 12 weeks, while the other twin received a placebo. Researchers conducted cognitive tests and monitored participants’ muscle strength throughout the study period.
At the end of the study, the group receiving the fiber supplement showed improvements in brain function, including memory and processing speed, compared to the placebo group. However, there was no significant difference in muscle strength between the two groups.
These findings suggest that simple dietary interventions, such as fiber supplementation, may hold promise for enhancing memory and brain health in aging populations. Further research in this area could provide valuable insights into preventing cognitive decline and improving overall well-being in older adults.
Discussion about this post