To Your Health
March, 2022 (Vol. 16, Issue 03) |
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The Gut-Brain Connection
By Editorial Staff
No one with a brain questions the importance of protecting it at all costs from decline. We're also becoming increasingly aware of the significance of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome as an indicator of our overall health. The two are actually interrelated, suggests new research. Let's learn why the health status of your gut microbiome could impact your risk of cognitive decline – even before you enter your golden years.
GI bacteria, viruses, and fungi may sound bad, but the microorganisms that live in your gut play a critical role in your overall health. Unfortunately, antibiotic use, poor dietary choices and other factors are destroying the gut microbiome. Increasingly, GI microbiome dysfunction is viewed as a cause of whole-body dysfunction. A study in JAMA Network Open points to cognitive decline at midlife as one possible consequence.
Researchers found that "β-diversity, a measure of gut microbial community composition, was statistically significantly associated with all measures of cognitive function. Several specific genera were also significantly associated with 1 or more measures of cognitive function." In other words, the more diverse and healthy the GI microbiome, the healthier the brain in terms of cognitive function.
Of note, this study involved nearly 600 adults with an average age of 55. Yes, your cognitive function can suffer even in midlife if your gut microbiome isn't in good shape! Talk to your doctor for more information.
