'Cheap' supplement could slash Alzheimer's risk

'Cheap' supplement could slash Alzheimer's risk Over the counter daily tablet may boost brain function and memory in adults aged over 60 Around 982,000 people in the UK are currently living with dementia, and Alzheimer's disease accounts for more than 60% of cases. There is no known cure for dementia, though a groundbreaking study has identified one key supplement that could enhance brain function in older adults in just a few weeks. Not only is the pill described as 'cheap', but it is also readily available over the counter, and researchers believe it could play a vital role in the battle against Alzheimer's disease. Remarkably, this pill is simply a daily fibre tablet, as experts believe there is a significant connection between gut health and brain function. Senior author Professor Claire Steves, of Kings College London, stated in March 2024: "We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks. This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our ageing population. Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer." During the study, scientists assigned 36 twin pairs aged over 60 to receive either a placebo or the supplement daily for 12 weeks, as reported by Surrey Live. This phase of the trial was entirely 'double-blind', meaning neither the researchers nor the participants were aware of who received which treatment until the study was concluded. Furthermore, all 72 individuals participated in resistance exercises and consumed protein supplements to support muscle function. The results revealed that participants who took the fibre tablets performed better in cognitive tests, such as the Paired Associates Learning test, which is widely regarded as an 'early marker for Alzheimer's disease'. While there was no notable difference in muscle strength between the two groups, those who consumed fibre also demonstrated faster reaction times and improved processing speeds. Professor Steves and her team are 'excited' by the discoveries, which could offer a ray of hope. "These plant fibres, which are cheap and available over the counter, could benefit a wide group of people in these cash-strapped times," Professor Steves continued. "They are safe and acceptable too. Our next task is to see whether these effects are sustained over longer periods and in larger groups of people."