Studies have suggested a potential link between gut microbiota changes and alterations in both muscle physiology and cognitive behavior. However, the role of gut microbiota in the aging process and its impact on physical function and cognition remain areas of active research. In a recent placebo-controlled double-blinded randomized controlled trial, researchers aimed to investigate the effects of a prebiotic supplement on physical function and cognition in older adults.

This study published in journal Nature Communications by Mary Ni and colleagues has revealed that prebiotic supplementation, may have potential benefits for improving cognition in the aging population. As individuals age, maintaining both physical function and cognitive abilities becomes increasingly important for overall well-being. However, age-related changes in the gut microbiome and the potential impact on muscle physiology and cognition have garnered attention in recent years.
The trial involved 36 pairs of twins, each aged 60 or older, who were block-randomized to receive either a prebiotic supplement or placebo daily for 12 weeks. All participants were prescribed resistance exercise and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation. The trial was conducted remotely using video visits, online questionnaires, cognitive testing, and posting of equipment and biological samples.
Key Findings:
• The prebiotic supplement resulted in a changed gut microbiome, including increased relative abundance of Bifidobacterium.
• There was no significant difference between the prebiotic and placebo groups for the primary outcome of chair rise time.
• However, the prebiotic supplement improved cognition compared to placebo, as evidenced by improved factor scores.
• The results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of remotely delivered trials for older adults, which could help reduce under-representation of this demographic group in clinical research.
The study findings suggest that inexpensive and readily available gut microbiome interventions, such as prebiotic supplementation, may have potential benefits for improving cognition in the aging population. These results underscore the importance of considering gut health as a potential target for interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging and preserving cognitive function in older adults.
Reference:
Ni Lochlainn, M., Bowyer, R. C. E., Moll, J. M., García, M. P., Wadge, S., Baleanu, A.-F., Nessa, A., Sheedy, A., Akdag, G., Hart, D., Raffaele, G., Seed, P. T., Murphy, C., Harridge, S. D. R., Welch, A. A., Greig, C., Whelan, K., & Steves, C. J. Effect of gut microbiome modulation on muscle function and cognition: the PROMOTe randomised controlled trial. Nature Communications,2024;15(1):1–15.https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46116-y