Probiotics boost cognitive function in older adults
Probiotics may improve cognitive function in older adults, especially after 12 weeks of daily intake.
Why it matters
- Probiotics could be a simple way to boost cognitive function in older adults.
- Cognitive decline is a major concern as the population ages.
By the numbers
- 21 randomized controlled trials included in the meta-analysis.
- Significant effects on overall cognitive performance, processing speed, memory, and spatial ability in older adults.
- Best results observed after 12 weeks of daily intake of approximately 2×10¹⁰ CFU.
The big picture
- Probiotics might have different effects on cognitive function at different stages of life.
- They seem to help with executive function in kids and verbal ability in young adults.
What they're saying
- Some experts are skeptical about the quality of the trials included in the meta-analysis.
Caveats
- The meta-analysis includes some trials with potential quality issues.
- The fullness score is 0.5, suggesting we might not have the full picture.
What’s next
- More high-quality trials are needed to confirm these findings and to better understand how probiotics might affect cognitive function at different ages.