Fiber is important for a healthy brain, according to a new study published in the Journal of Nutritional Neuroscience. The importance of fiber has increased over the years. Every dietitian recommends fiber for good health. It is considered to be very important for a healthy digestive system and also has cardiovascular benefits like lowering cholesterol.Also read – If you have a history of oral cancer, take these 5 important steps
The study was led by Japanese researchers and showed that a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing dementia. Also read – Here are 4 benefits of buttermilk and why you should include it in your lunch every day in summer
“Dementia is a devastating disease that usually requires long-term care,” said Professor Kazumasa Yamagishi, lead author of the study. “We were interested in some recent research which suggests that dietary fiber may play a preventive role. We investigated this using data collected from thousands of Japanese adults for a large study that began in the 1980s. ” Also read – Struggling with weight and PCOS? Expert shares 5 helpful tips for weight loss
Participants completed surveys that assessed their dietary intake between 1985 and 1999. He was generally healthy and between 40 and 64 years old. They were then followed up from 1999 to 2020, and it was noted if they had dementia that needed care.
The researchers divided the data from a total of 3739 adults into four groups according to the amount of fiber in their diet. They found that groups that ate high levels of fiber had a lower risk of developing dementia.
The team also examined whether there is a difference between the two main types of fiber: soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber found in foods such as oats and legumes is important for beneficial bacteria living in the gut as well as other health benefits. Insoluble fiber found in whole grains, vegetables and some other foods is considered important for intestinal health. The researchers found that the link between fiber intake and dementia was more pronounced for soluble fibers.
The team had some ideas on what could be the link between dietary fiber and the risk of dementia.
“The system is currently unknown but may involve interactions between the gut and the brain,” said Professor Yamagishi. “One possibility is that soluble fiber regulates the formation of intestinal bacteria. This formation can affect neuroinflammation, which plays a role in the onset of dementia. It is also possible that dietary fiber may reduce other risk factors for dementia, such as body weight, blood pressure, lipids, and glucose levels. The work is still in the early stages, and it is important to confirm the connection to other populations.
Today in many countries, such as the US and Australia, many people consume less fiber than recommended by nutritionists. By promoting healthy eating habits with high dietary fiber, it may be possible to reduce the incidence of dementia.
(With input by ANI)
