Scientific researchers and the public alike have an increasing interest in the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and the gut. Research has emerged in recent years suggesting that changes in the diversity and composition of gut bacteria may potentially influence cognitive health.
The conclusions of these studies have led to a growing desire to understand the connection between the gut and the brain. More research is required to understand the physiology involved in this connection and then to see how it might be applied to the treatment of the disease.
What mechanisms are involved in the potential link between the gut and brain health?
- The gut-brain axis refers to the two-way communication between the brain and the gut. Interestingly, signals between these two entities can influence overall health. The bidirectional signals can influence everything from immune function to mood to cognition. Research indicates that disruptions to the health of the gut may affect brain health. These disruptions, like increased permeability in the intestinal lining (also referred to as leaky gut) and changes to the ratios of bacteria in the gut, may increase the risk of developing neurological conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Interestingly, studies have found some differences in the ratios of gut bacteria in people living with Alzheimer's disease compared to individuals not impacted by Alzheimer’s.
- We now know that the gut contains microbiota, trillions of diverse microscopic organisms that exist in a specific composition for each person. Though research is inconclusive, as mentioned above, shifts in the gut microbiota may impact cognition and brain health.
- Increasing research studies are being published on the role of chronic inflammation in a whole host of diseases and conditions. Imbalances in the gut microbiota are believed to influence inflammation on a whole body level. These imbalances can also negatively impact immune system function and increase inflammation in the brain. Researchers hypothesize that this systemic inflammation has the potential to increase the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and contribute to quicker progression of the disease.
- A diet full of fermented foods, fruits, vegetables, and fiber can all potentially improve gut bacteria. Conversely, eating high amounts of sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats has the opposite effect on the gut microbiota. Dietary supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics also can promote healthy gut bacteria. Some of these dietary and supplemental interventions are being explored as potential aspects of a comprehensive Alzheimer’s treatment plan. Certain specific diets, such as the MIND Diet or the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Researchers hypothesize that this might have something to do with these diets' impact on gut health.
Respite Care in San Diego
RanchView Senior Assisted Living is a family-owned and operated independent assisted living community in Encinitas, California. We offer progressively increasing levels of care according to our residents’ needs.
We also offer respite care accommodations. The respite care program enables family caregivers to take time to rest, recover from stress, and restore much-needed balance in their lives.
With this service, we open our doors to individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia for a limited stay in our memory care community. This allows family caregivers to have temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities without requiring families to make an immediate decision about long-term care.
