Fiber 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 fiber, whether through food or drinks, is a great way to relieve constipation.
Fiber supplements also could improve brain function in older adults, according to a new study.
The study, published in Nature Communications, followed individuals older than 60 for 12 weeks. Those who took prebiotic fiber supplements showed a “significant improvement in memory.”
The study evaluated the gut microbiome and its correlation with both cognitive and physical function in the aging process. Age increases the resilience of the gut microbiome and reduces it, making it more vulnerable to disease and medications.
After the individuals were given either a placebo or fiber supplement, they underwent a series of visual memory tests from the PairedAssociates 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 behavior.”
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.
Dr. Thomas R. Vidic, a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology in Elkhart, Ind., told Health the findings were “fascinating” but the study of the gut-brain connection is new. “We are just in the infancy of this knowledge,” he said.
A 2023 study found a connection between gut microbiota and anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.
