Boost Brain Health with Prebiotic Fiber: New Study Reveals

As we age, maintaining brain health becomes increasingly important, especially considering the heightened risk of developing dementia. While strategies like crossword puzzles and daily walks can contribute to keeping the brain young, recent research suggests that adding certain supplements to your routine could also be beneficial. A study conducted by the School of Life Course & Population Sciences at King’s College London found that two prebiotic plant fiber supplements, fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and inulin, can improve brain function in just 12 weeks.

The researchers focused on the effects of these supplements on cognition and muscle strength in adults over 60. Prebiotics, according to the Mayo Clinic, are foods that aid in improving the beneficial bacteria in your gut, distinguishing them from probiotics. Inulin is a dietary fiber naturally found in plants, while FOS is a carbohydrate found in various plants like onions, garlic, artichokes, bananas, and asparagus. FOS is also commonly used as an alternative sweetener.

The study aimed to understand the impact of these prebiotic supplements on the gut microbiome, which previous studies have suggested plays a role in muscle physiology and cognition as we age. To examine this relationship, 36 pairs of twins were given either a placebo or a supplement daily for 12 weeks.

“By the end of the study period, the group that received the fiber supplement performed better in tests that assessed brain function, including one that is an early marker for Alzheimer’s disease (the Paired Associates Learning test) when compared with those who received a placebo. Participants taking the supplements also made fewer errors when taking a memory test.”

The research further supported the connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. After 12 weeks, the fiber supplements “led to significant changes in participants’ gut microbiome composition, particularly an increase in the numbers of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium.”

Mary Ní Lochlainn, a post-doctoral National Institute for Health and Care Research Fellow from the Department of Twin Research at King’s College London, expressed her enthusiasm about the results. “We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks,” she said. “This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our ageing population. Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer.”

Senior study author Claire Steves, professor of aging and health, and clinical director of TwinsUK at King’s College London, highlighted the accessibility and affordability of these supplements. “These plant fibres, 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,” Steves said.

However, the study didn’t find any significant effects of the supplements on muscle strength over the 12-week period. Participants also engaged in resistance exercises and took a separate protein supplement “aimed at improving muscle function.”

The study was conducted remotely, with patients monitored via video, and taking questionnaires and cognitive tests online. This method was praised as a potential benefit for future research, as it doesn’t require older adults to travel or get to a hospital.

Despite the promising results, the study had some limitations, including a predominantly female participant pool and the inability to assess muscle mass due to the remote setting. The authors also acknowledged the need for larger research projects to address digital literacy and access to technology.

Looking ahead, Steves mentioned that researchers plan to investigate “whether these effects are sustained over longer periods and in larger groups of people.” It’s important to note that while this information is current and comes from top experts and health agencies, it should not replace professional guidance. Always consult your healthcare provider directly regarding any medication or health-related questions you may have.

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