Researchers from King’s College London have discovered that adding a daily prebiotic to a protein supplement improved memory performance in older twins. The 12-week trial showed that the combination of protein, prebiotics, and light resistance exercise enhanced cognitive function, particularly on tasks sensitive to early Alzheimer’s disease.
The study used a twin design to control for genetic and environmental factors, which allowed the researchers to isolate the effects of the supplement on cognition. Participants who received the prebiotic supplement showed improved performance on a memory test, with increased levels of Bifidobacterium, a genus that often responds to inulin and fructooligosaccharides.
The findings are promising for enhancing brain health and memory in older adults, particularly those at risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of this approach on daily functioning and whether early cognitive gains persist over time.
The study highlights the potential benefits of using plant-based prebiotics to support gut-brain communication and cognition. The researchers acknowledge that larger and longer trials are necessary to confirm these findings and explore the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/common-supplement-prebiotic-fructooligosaccharides-protects-brain-from-dementia