With no known cure for Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia, current treatments mainly aim to provide comfort to patients and address symptoms where feasible.
Recent research, however, has indicated that the solution to protecting and treating neurodegeneration may actually lie in our gut rather than our brain.
Past studies have already established the link between gut health and brain function and the latest research featured in the Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative journal delves into kefir in particular.
Kefir, a fermented milk product filled with various probiotics, is credited with aiding blood sugar regulation, cholesterol control, and digestion. These gastrointestinal advantages suggest that it might offer protection against Alzheimer’s as well.
The researchers said: “There are potential benefits for the use of kefir in Alzheimer’s Disease management, as multiple advantages regarding inflammatory profile and symptom improvement were shown in invertebrates, rodents and humans studies.”
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Kefir has risen in popularity over recent years as part of the growing wellness trends. Beloved Zoe expert Professor Tim Spector has also been championing the fermented food.
The study suggests that probiotics like those in kefir “has the potential to prevent the disease and delay dementia” given its significant influence on gastrointestinal wellness and its linked relationship with the brain.
The anti-inflammatory characteristics of kefir are also thought to play a critical role.
One research paper reviewed by the scientists gave kefir to 13 Alzheimer’s Disease patients, which resulted in improved motor skills, cognitive functioning, and memory.
However, another study found that kefir did not enhance cognition in severe Alzheimer’s patients.
The researchers stressed the need for more studies, especially human trials, to fully comprehend the long-term effects of combining kefir with other preventative treatments currently available, the dosages required for positive outcomes, and the stage of disease progression at which kefir would be most effective.
Some instances of Alzheimer’s are hereditary and embedded in an individual’s genetics, while others arise from environmental and lifestyle factors.
News Medical suggests that over 30% of Alzheimer’s cases could be prevented by modifying these factors, including avoiding other potentially preventable health conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.