How does dietary fiber affect gut and cognitive health?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

As a 72-year-old male interested in maintaining cognitive health, what dietary supplements and foods can support brain function? What role does dietary fiber play in promoting gut health, and how might it impact cognitive decline? Are there specific brain-boosting supplements recommended for seniors like me? What does the latest research say about nutrition and aging? How can I incorporate more fiber-rich foods into my diet to support overall health and longevity?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answered by Sumiya Sulthana

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The best brain supplements, according to experts

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Among the supplements recommended by experts for brain health, omega-3 fatty acids are at the top of the list.

  2. Creatine.

  3. Caffeine.

  4. L-Theanine.

  5. Vitamin D.

  6. Choline.

  7. Resveratrol.

Fibre consists of the indigestible parts or compounds of plants, which pass relatively unchanged through our stomach and intestines. Fibre is primarily a carbohydrate, and its main role is to maintain a healthy digestive system.

Dietary fiber intake is positively associated with cognitive function in a cohort of older adults (over 60 years) in the US, as determined by DSST(DANTES subject standardized tests)) scores. No associations were observed between dietary fiber intake and CERAD WLT(Consortium to establish a registry for Alzheimer's disease, word list test) (word list test), WRT (word recall test), WLT-IC (word list test-immediate recall), WRT-IC (word recall test-immediate recall), and AFT (animal fluency test) scores.

Essential nutrients for brain health in the elderly:

  1. Omega-3 fatty acids: For significant benefits to brain health, start with omega-3 fatty acids.

  2. Vitamin D: Notable for supporting strong bones and helping prevent osteoporosis.

  3. Vitamin B12: Like vitamin D, vitamin B12 has many mental benefits.

  4. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables contain many vitamins and minerals essential for good health. They are generally low in fat and high in fibre. Many studies have shown that people who consume diets high in fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer.

We should all aim for at least five portions of fruits and vegetables each day. This includes fresh, frozen, dried, and canned fruits and vegetables, as well as smoothies and 100 percent fruit juices.

I hope this guidance helps you.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Answered bySumiya Sulthana

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At September 14, 2024
Reviewed AtSeptember 14, 2024

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