Cheap Prebiotic Fibers Linked to Memory Boost in Older Adults, Twin Study Finds

A 2024 Nature Communications twin study found that daily prebiotic supplements (inulin or FOS) added to a protein powder improved memory test scores in people over 60, prompting the PRECODE trial at Wageningen to test three fibers—chicory inulin, resistant dextrin, and seaweed polysaccharide—over 26 weeks. Early data from 36 twin pairs show modest cognitive gains and subtle gut microbiome changes (notably more Bifidobacterium), with results expected in 2027. Researchers view these inexpensive, over-the-counter fibers as a promising, safe approach to supporting brain health during aging.