Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive impairments that affect memory, decision-making, communication, and other aspects of daily life. The disease is marked by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles, leading to inflammation and cognitive decline. Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiota-brain axis may provide insights into AD’s onset and progression, with research showing that individuals with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have a lower diversity of gut microbiota compared with healthy individuals.

The gut microbiota’s influence on AD has been extensively studied, revealing associations between specific microbial populations and AD-related biomarkers like amyloid-beta and tau. Alterations in gut microbiota composition have been linked to cognitive decline, with diet playing a significant role in modulating these microbial communities. Diets rich in fiber, healthy fats, and probiotics have been associated with improved gut health and cognitive function, while unhealthy diets can exacerbate AD pathology. Probiotics and prebiotics are being explored as potential therapeutic approaches to modify gut microbiota, offering new avenues for the treatment and prevention of AD.

Reference: Dissanayaka DMS, Jayasena V, Rainey-Smith SR, Martins RN, Fernando WMADB. The Role of Diet and Gut Microbiota in Alzheimer’s Disease. Nutrients. 2024;16(3):412. doi: 10.3390/nu16030412.