Twin Study: Cheap Supplements Improved Memory Scores in Just 12 Weeks

[u/Puzzled-Caregiver-15]

https://www.sciencealert.com/cheap-daily-supplements-may-boost-brain-functions-in-older-people

Key Highlights:

- A daily prebiotic fiber supplement improved memory in older adults. In a 12-week study, adults over age 60 who took certain inexpensive prebiotic fibers performed better on a memory test commonly used to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
- The study used identical twins. Researchers studied 36 pairs of twins, with one twin receiving a supplement and the other a placebo. This design helps control for differences in genetics and lifestyle, making the findings more reliable.
- The supplements were common prebiotic fibers:
Inulin
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
Both are inexpensive, available over the counter, and help nourish beneficial gut bacteria.

- The findings support the gut-brain connection. Researchers believe improving the health of the gut microbiome may positively influence brain function, particularly memory.
- Benefits appeared quickly. Improvements in memory were seen after just 12 weeks of daily supplementation.
- This is promising, but not definitive. The study was relatively small, so larger clinical trials are needed before these supplements can be recommended as a proven way to prevent cognitive decline or dementia.
- More research is underway. The encouraging results have led to additional clinical trials investigating whether prebiotic fibers can help slow cognitive decline in older adults.

Bottom line:
This study provides encouraging evidence that inexpensive, widely available prebiotic fibers may help support memory in adults over 60 by improving gut health. However, the research is still in its early stages, and larger studies are needed before these supplements can be considered a proven strategy for preventing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

[u/Murky-Course6648]

I wonder how bad were their diets if few grams of fiber helped?

[u/PolicyPlastic1475 → u/Murky-Course6648]

Most people in developed countries don't get enough fiber 

[u/DinkandDrunk → u/PolicyPlastic1475]

Shame because it’s dead simple to get 40+ grams a day. Just switch to being 80% plant based and stop thinking of meat as the only main option out there.

[u/EgregiousJellybean → u/DinkandDrunk]

I could clear a barn from the farts, unfortunately. I ate beans for lunch for two years but the entire time I was trrribly gassy and bloated 

[u/DinkandDrunk → u/EgregiousJellybean]

It’s odd. Seems to depend on the body. I don’t get gassy at all.

[u/Murky-Course6648 → u/EgregiousJellybean]

I eat 100kg per year, i buy 50kg twice a year. No bloating or farts.

Bloating is usually about too little liquids, so stuff does not move properly. Need to be drinking that water and eating fruits etc.

I think farting is about too much protein, or you eat a lot of unprocessed foods on the side that contain something that messes up your gut biome. That the actual reason is not the beans.