A study recently published in Nature Communications revealed that an affordable supplement taken daily can improve cognitive function in seniors. Researchers from TwinsUK wanted to see if using inexpensive fiber prebiotic supplements to target the microbiota could improve brain function and muscle health. Over a period of 12 weeks, 36 pairs of twins over the age of 60 were given either the supplement or a placebo each. It was a double-blind study, meaning that neither the participants or the researchers knew who was receiving which treatment until it was complete. Let’s take a look at what they discovered in the article below.
The Inexpensive Supplements That Could Improve Brain Function in Seniors
The participants were required to drink a protein powder that either contained the supplement or a placebo and do resistance exercises. They were monitored remotely via video and were required to fill out various questionnaires and cognitive tests. The researchers found that taking the supplement resulted in considerable gut microbiome changes, specifically a marked increase in Bifidobacterium, considered a beneficial bacteria. No difference in muscle strength was observed between the two groups. However, the group that had taken the supplement exhibited improved brain function in their tests. This included tests that determined early markers for Alzheimer’s, processing speed, and reaction time.
This is important information, as it determines how well a person would react to everyday situations, such as preventing a fall mid-trip or reacting to sudden changes in traffic. Another important aspect of this study was that it proved that it was possible to conduct trials with seniors remotely. This means that the participants did not need to travel far for hospital visits and researchers likewise did not have to travel to make observations. However, there were certain limitations to the trial that will need to be addressed in future studies. For example, not every senior person has access to technology or is computer literate.
Read More: Probiotics & Mental Health: A Guide to Help With Brain, Mood, and Gut Health
What Does the Future Hold?
So far, studies on mice have suggested that bacteria such as Bifidobacterium improve brain function by regulating the gut-brain connection. According to a King’s College London researcher, Mary Ni Lochlainn, they are “excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks. 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.” The researchers work for the largest adult twin registry in the United Kingdom. Twin studies are very valuable as they provide information that helps differentiate between the environmental and genetic factors that impact human health.
Evidence of a strong connection between the brain and gut continues to grow year after year. Some specialists are now so assured by the results that they actually refer to the stomach as the body’s ‘second brain.’ So far, the studies have revealed that these plant-fiber-based supplements are effective and affordable and could potentially benefit many individuals who are strapped for cash. Their next step is to conduct studies to determine whether these effects can be sustained in larger numbers and for longer periods of time. The participants of this particular study, for example, were mostly female, which may result in some bias in the data. However, it is still relevant as females are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s. Additionally, this research bolsters the theory that cognitive decline is driven by external factors too.
Finding New Ways to Improve Brain Function
The study’s findings confirm the potential of a cheap, plant-fiber-based supplement to improve brain function in seniors. However, additional research is needed to assess long-term benefits and effectiveness across varied populations. These findings provide new, accessible approaches to promote cognitive health. As scientists continue exploring the gut-brain relationship, this study may pave the way for new approaches to combating age-related cognitive loss. These promising findings suggest that a simple daily supplement could one day become an effective tool for enhancing brain function and overall well-being in seniors.
Read More: 10 Natural Remedies to Cleanse and Support Colon Health