A significant study has revealed that daily protein and prebiotic supplements may enhance memory function in individuals over the age of 60. Conducted by researchers at King’s College London, this first-of-its-kind research focused on twins and suggests that specific dietary components could be beneficial for cognitive health as people age.
The study, published in March 2024 in the journal Nature Communications, involved 36 pairs of twins, all aged 60 and above. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a daily prebiotic supplement mixed with protein powder or a placebo. The results indicated that those consuming the prebiotics, specifically inulin and fructooligosaccharide (FOS), showed improved performance on cognitive tests after three months. This test is notably utilized to identify early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers, help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. In this study, the presence of the beneficial bacteria Bifidobacterium increased among participants taking the supplements. Previous research on mice has suggested that Bifidobacterium may play a role in alleviating cognitive deficits by influencing gut-brain connections.
“We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks,” said Mary Ni Lochlainn, a geriatric medicine researcher at King’s College London. “This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our aging population.”
The study’s design leveraged the unique advantages of twin research, which allows for a clearer distinction between genetic and environmental influences on health outcomes. While preliminary findings show promise in the realm of cognitive enhancement, the study did not indicate significant physical benefits, such as improvements in muscle mass among participants taking the high-fiber supplements.
The twin cohort was predominantly female, which may introduce selection bias. Researchers have acknowledged this limitation but also pointed out that females are generally at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest a need for further exploration into the link between dietary fibers and cognitive health, particularly in relation to gender differences.
“We believe these plant fibers, which are inexpensive and widely available, could benefit many people, especially in these challenging economic times,” commented Claire Steves, a geriatrician at King’s College London. “Our next task is to investigate whether these effects are sustained over longer periods and in larger groups.”
The relationship between the gut microbiome and cognitive function is becoming increasingly recognized in the scientific community. Some experts now refer to the gut as the body’s “second brain.” Evidence continues to mount regarding how gut health can impact overall well-being, including cognitive performance.
The study aligns with a growing body of research suggesting that dietary interventions, particularly those rich in certain fibers, may mitigate cognitive decline. The gut has been shown to influence various bodily systems, including the immune system and central nervous system, and enhancing its microbiome through specific prebiotics could pave the way for innovative treatments for various health conditions.
As researchers continue to explore the potential of dietary supplements in improving cognitive function, the implications of these findings could resonate widely. The prospect of simple, affordable interventions to support brain health in aging populations remains an essential area of ongoing research.
