Targeting Cognitive Resilience through Prebiotics: A Focused Perspective
2024

Targeting Cognitive Resilience through Prebiotics

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Dalile Boushra, Boyle Neil B, Ruiz Franco T, Chakrabarti Anirikh, Respondek Frederique, Dodd Georgina F, Kadosh Kathrin Cohen, Hepsomali Piril, Brummer Robert J, McArthur Simon, Dam Veerle, Zanzer Yoghatama Cindya, Vermeiren Yannick, Schellekens Harriet

Primary Institution: KU Leuven

Hypothesis

Can prebiotics promote cognitive resilience under cognition-taxing conditions?

Conclusion

Prebiotics may help maintain cognitive function during stress, poor sleep, sedentary behavior, and unhealthy diets.

Supporting Evidence

  • Prebiotics can influence cognitive functions through the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
  • Existing studies show limited effects of prebiotics on cognitive functioning in healthy adults.
  • Prebiotics may be more effective when tested under stress or cognitive challenges.

Takeaway

This study suggests that eating certain foods called prebiotics might help our brains work better when we're stressed or not sleeping well.

Methodology

The article evaluates existing systematic reviews and meta-analyses of human intervention studies on prebiotics and cognitive functioning.

Potential Biases

Some studies may have methodological limitations and lack adequate controls.

Limitations

Current studies often have small sample sizes, heterogeneous methodologies, and moderate to high risk of bias.

Participant Demographics

Predominantly healthy adult participants.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100343

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