The Potential Utility of Prebiotics to Modulate Alzheimer’s Disease: A Review of the Evidence

This review explores the potential of prebiotics, like inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), to mitigate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression via the gut-brain axis. Prebiotics promote beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, which produce compounds like butyrate. These compounds reduce neuroinflammation, enhance gut barrier integrity, and may improve brain health. Animal studies show prebiotics can lower inflammation and improve cognition, but human evidence is limited. The review suggests prebiotics may support AD prevention, emphasizing the need for clinical trials to confirm their cognitive benefits and establish effective dosages.

Add prebiotic-rich foods like onions, bananas, and asparagus to your diet to support gut-brain health. Prebiotics may promote beneficial gut bacteria, which produce compounds that reduce inflammation and support cognitive resilience. While promising for Alzheimer’s prevention, most evidence comes from animal studies, and human research remains limited. Prebiotics should complement a balanced diet and be discussed with a healthcare provider, particularly for those with AD or at risk.