In addition to reducing the risk of certain diseases and preventing constipation, fibre might also be of help in improving memory for senior citizens, according to new research. — TNS
Fibre is essential for the digestive system.
It helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers the risk of diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
Getting the right amount of fibre, whether through food or drinks, is a great way to relieve constipation.
In addition to all that, fibre supplements could improve brain function in older adults, according to a new study.
Published in the journal Nature Communications, the study followed individuals over the age of 60 for a 12-week period.
Results found those who took prebiotic fibre supplements showed a “significant improvement in memory”.
The study evaluated the gut microbiome and its correlation with both cognitive and physical function in the ageing process.
Age reduces the resilience of the gut microbiome, making it more vulnerable to disease and medications.
After the individuals were given either a placebo or fibre supplement, they underwent a series of visual memory tests from the Paired Associates Learning test.
“This particular cognitive test has clinical significance, having been identified as an early identifier of Alzheimer’s dementia,” the study said.
By inducing gut microbiota, the researchers saw changes that may alter “both muscle physiology and cognitive behaviour”.
Although the study demonstrated an impressive change in memory, experts say there isn’t much to go on, given that only 72 of the 626 individuals assessed were able to participate.
American Academy of Neurology fellow Dr Thomas R. Vidic told the Health website that the findings were “fascinating”, but that the study of the gut-brain connection is still new.
“We are just in the infancy of this knowledge,” he said.
“The study shows an association between the fibre supplement and better cognition rather than a direct causal effect,” Australia’s University of Adelaide nutrition and neuroscience researcher Dr Amy Reichelt told the Health website.
Although the discovery between fibre, gut microbiomes and cognitive health continues to be evaluated, a 2023 study found a connection between gut microbiota and anxiety, depression and other mental disorders, revealing that certain gut microbiota do have an effect on mood. – By Ebony Williams/The Atlanta Journal-Constitution/Tribune News Service
