Inexpensive Supplement Shows Promise for Boosting Brain Function in Older Adults

A recent study has found that a simple, affordable daily supplement may improve memory and thinking in adults over 65. The supplement, inulin, is a prebiotic fiber that encourages beneficial gut bacteria growth.¹ 

With the world’s aging population and increasing rates of age-related cognitive decline, this discovery offers a promising and accessible way to support brain health.

Here’s what researcher’s found.

Gut-Brain Connection: How Inulin Reduces Neuroinflammation

The study revealed that inulin supplementation alters the gut microbiome, specifically increasing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium. These changes are associated with reduced neuroinflammation and improved recovery from brain injury in animal models. 

The findings highlight the growing understanding of the gut-brain axis and the potential for targeting gut health to benefit the brain.

Cognitive Improvements in Just 12 Weeks

Participants in the study who took the inulin supplement showed significant improvements in cognitive tests after just 12 weeks, compared to the placebo group. 

The benefits were particularly evident in the Paired Associates Learning test, which is an early marker for Alzheimer’s disease. These results suggest that inulin could be a promising preventive measure against age-related cognitive decline and potentially even dementia onset.

Accessible & Affordable Prebiotic Option

One of the key advantages of inulin is its accessibility and affordability.^(ref) 

Inulin is a naturally occurring prebiotic fiber found in many common foods and is widely available as a safe, low-cost supplement. This means that a broad population could potentially benefit from its brain-boosting effects without major barriers.

Novel Study Design & Future Research

• The study demonstrating inulin’s cognitive benefits was conducted remotely, with participants monitored via video calls and online tests. This innovative design shows the feasibility of running trials with older adults without extensive travel or hospital visits.
• While the recent study did not find significant muscle strength improvements from inulin, prior nursing home research has indicated potential frailty reduction and muscle benefits from inulin combined with exercise. More studies are needed to explore the combined effects of inulin and physical activity on healthy aging.

Implications for Healthier Aging

As the world’s population ages, maintaining cognitive function is increasingly critical for quality of life. Inulin’s potential to boost brain health in older adults holds great promise for healthier aging. 

Through enhancing memory and thinking with a simple, affordable daily supplement, we could help more people live independently and well for longer.

• Inulin is generally recognized as safe and well-tolerated as a supplement, with a long history of human consumption across many foods.
• The recent study adds to a growing body of research on how gut health influences the brain, unlocking new approaches for supporting cognitive function throughout life.

Additional Benefits of Inulin for Overall Wellness

Beyond its brain-boosting potential, inulin offers a range of health benefits that can contribute to overall wellness in older adults:

• Inulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and allowing sugar to be released gradually, without spiking.
• As a soluble fiber, inulin promotes digestive health by increasing fullness, reducing cholesterol absorption, and adding bulk to stool.
• Some studies suggest that inulin may help reduce the risk of colon cancer, although more research is needed to confirm this effect.
• Preliminary evidence indicates that inulin and other prebiotics may help alleviate symptoms of depression, possibly by influencing the gut-brain axis.

While further research is needed, inulin may be an accessible key to better brain aging for millions. 

As we continue to expand our understanding of the gut-brain axis, targeting the gut microbiome could offer exciting new ways to support cognitive health and independence in older adults.

Source
1. NAD + Aging Science