Researchers from the University of Tsukuba in Japan found that higher dietary fiber levels, especially soluble fiber, were associated with a lower risk of dementia. We are often told to eat more fiber. It is considered necessary for a healthy digestive system and has cardiovascular benefits, such as lowering cholesterol. Now, there is evidence that fiber is also crucial to a healthy brain. In a new study recently published in the journal nutritional neuroscience, Japanese researchers showed that a high fiber diet was associated with a lower risk of dementia.
"Dementia is a devastating disease that usually requires long-term care. Some recent studies have shown that dietary fiber may play a preventive role. We investigated this using data collected from thousands of adults in Japan in a large study that began in the 1980s," said Professor Yamakawa, the study's lead author "
Participants completed a survey to assess their dietary consumption between 1985 and 1999. They are generally healthy, aged between 40 and 64. They were then followed from 1999 to 2020 and recorded whether they had dementia requiring care.
The scientists divided data from a total of 3739 adults into four groups based on the amount of fiber in their diet. They found that people who ate more fiber were less likely to develop dementia.
The team also studied whether there were differences between the two main types of fibers: soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fiber, which is found in foods such as oats and beans, is important for beneficial bacteria living in the gut and provides other health benefits. Insoluble fibers found in whole grains, vegetables and other foods are also known to be important for intestinal health. The researchers found that the link between fiber intake and dementia was more pronounced in soluble fiber.
The team has some theories on the possible basis of the link between dietary fiber and the risk of dementia.
Professor yamaan said: "The mechanism is unclear, but it may involve the interaction between the gut and the brain. One possibility is that soluble fiber regulates the composition of intestinal bacteria. This component may affect neuroinflammation, which plays a role in the pathogenesis of dementia. Dietary fiber may also reduce other risk factors of dementia, such as body weight, blood pressure, blood lipids and glucose levels. This work is still in its early stages and is still in progress It is important to recognize this association in other populations. ".
In many countries today, such as the United States and Australia, many people consume less fiber than nutritionists recommend. By encouraging healthy eating habits with high dietary fiber, it may be possible to reduce the incidence rate of dementia.