Food Fix Delivers Better Brain Function in 12 Weeks

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted March 29, 2024

I’ll admit I’ve never been much of a fiber supplement fan.

Can fiber help you stay regular? Certainly.

However, there are much better ways to keep your morning bathroom routine on track than loading up on massive amounts of fiber.

And for many folks, fiber supplements can cause a lot of gas, bloating, and pain.

But new research linking fiber and cognition has me taking a closer look…

I’m always excited to learn new things and am open to changing my opinion.

It doesn’t matter if it’s an expensive drug, a new health fad, or a simple vegetable you can add to your diet; when it comes to health matters, I have one simple rule.

I ask, “Does it work?” and let the answer drive my actions.

So, I was intrigued when I came across a new study in Nature Communications linking fiber to better brain function.

Researchers found taking a daily fiber supplement for 12 weeks significantly improved brain function in folks 60 or older. In fact, this simple and cheap addition to the diet improved performance on memory tests designed to measure early signs of Alzheimer’s.

And the reason why it worked is something I talk about a LOT here in Living Well Daily. And that’s gut health.

The fiber supplement significantly improved participants’ gut microbiome composition. The number of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, increased.

The gut microbiome, the vast ecosystem of bacteria in our intestines, is a key player in our overall health.

A growing body of research shows that the balance and diversity of these microbes can influence everything from our digestion and immune function to our mental health and cognitive abilities.

So, how can you cultivate a healthy gut microbiome? Fiber IS a good place to start.

But while a fiber supplement was used in this study, there are plenty of delicious, whole-food sources of fiber that can benefit your gut bacteria, including lentils, split peas, oats, apples, chickpeas, almonds, chia seeds, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, pears, and avocados.

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir, certain cheeses, miso, kimchi, and kombucha contain beneficial probiotic bacteria. A probiotic supplement is a good idea too.

If you decide to take a fiber supplement, be sure to increase your intake gradually and drink plenty of water to avoid digestive discomfort.

Pay just a bit more attention to your gut health, and you could soon find yourself feeling sharper, healthier, and more vibrant well into your golden years.

And another thing…

Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…

Live LONGER and HEALTHIER with the “Grocery Cart Challenge”

Convenience isn’t the only reason we can’t resist the siren call of ultra-processed foods. The truth is more sinister than that. Find out the TRUTH.

Caffeine’s Benefits Go BEYOND the Buzz

New research confirms caffeine is linked to lower body fat and diabetes risk. But genetic testing reveals a strange twist coffee fans need to know.

Exercise Leaving You in Pain? Try THIS Natural Fix

What if you could hit the gym or tackle the treadmill and NOT feel like you’d been hit by a truck afterward? THIS ugly root could hold the key.

The Hidden (and DEADLY) Cost of Convenience

In our fast-paced world, convenience is king. But regularly eating ultra-processed foods can send your risk for THIS killer soaring.

Mailbag: The TRUE Cause of Your Tingly Scalp

It’s common to experience odd physical sensations like scalp tingling when shocked, stressed, or anxious. Here’s what’s going on…

Glucose Guardians Discovered at the GROCERY Store!

Concerned about your blood sugar? A recent meta-study confirms several popular spices could be tasty and effective glucose guardians.

How to Get Your Spouse to Go to the Doctor

Many men (and some women, too) avoid preventative care and doctor’s visits. If your spouse does here’s how to get them to FINALLY make the appointment.

P.S. Try this “Hobby Hack” to keep your brain fit for LIFE.

Source:

Ni Lochlainn, et al., (2024). “Effect of gut microbiome modulation on muscle function and cognition: The PROMOTe randomised controlled trial.” Nature Communications, 15(1), 1-15. doi. org /10.1038 /s41467-024-46116-y

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND