'Cheap' supplement could help boost brain function and slash Alzheimer's risk, experts say

A groundbreaking study has highlighted a key supplement that could improve brain function in older adults within weeks. Not only is this supplement affordable, but it's also readily available over the counter, and researchers believe it could be instrumental in combating Alzheimer's disease.

Astonishingly, the supplement in question is just a simple daily fibre tablet, with experts pointing to a significant connection between gut health and brain function.

Senior author Professor Claire Steves from King's College London shared her enthusiasm in March: "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."

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She added: "Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer."

In the study, scientists assigned 36 pairs of twins over the age of 60 either a placebo or the fibre supplement to take every day for 12 weeks.

The trial was 'double-blind', ensuring that neither the researchers nor the participants knew who was receiving the actual supplement until after the study concluded. Moreover, all 72 participants engaged in resistance training and took protein supplements to support muscle function, reports Surrey Live.

The study revealed that those who took the fibre tablets performed better in cognitive tests, such as the Paired Associates Learning test, often used as an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease. Interestingly, while there was no significant difference in muscle strength between the groups, those who consumed fibre had improved reaction times and processing speeds.

Professor Steves and her team are 'excited' about these results, which could offer a ray of hope.

"These plant fibres, which are cheap and readily available, could benefit a wide group of people in these cash-strapped times," said Professor Steves.

"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."