What if cognitive decline was linked to gut health? Two studies were presented at an international conference on Alzheimer's disease. According to the scientists present, there is a correlation between poor digestion and cognitive decline.
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Healthy brain and intestines
Eat well to think well. That's essentially what these two new studies seem to prove. There are indeed little-known links between the intestines and the brain, and studying this relationship could enable us to better combat cognitive decline. Dr. M. Snyder argues that all of our bodily functions are connected.
Our body systems are all interconnected. When one system malfunctions, it affects the others. When this malfunction is not corrected, it can lead to a cascade of consequences for the rest of the body.
By comparing the participants' bowel movements with their cognitive functions, the scientists made some surprising discoveries.
Read more:How often should you poop in a day?
Constipated people are more likely to have cognitive problems
According to the researchers, you should poop everyday to keep a healthy brain.
Frequency of bowel movements every three days or less is associated with a 73% higher risk of subjective cognitive decline.
In total, constipated people would have a cognitive age 3 years higher than people who defecate once a day.
But how can doctors explain this link? Further studies are needed, but it could be linked to the intestinal microbiota and, more specifically, to the lack of a 'good bacterium' that produces butyrate. According to Cleveland Clinic:
Butyrate plays an important role in the health of the digestive system by constituting the main source of energy for colon cells; it covers around 70% of their energy requirements. It may also have other health benefits, including supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation and preventing diseases such as cancer.
Read more:This is what the shape of your poop says about your health, according to an expert
This article has been translated from Gentside FR.
Sources used:
PR Newswire: CONSTIPATION ASSOCIATED WITH COGNITIVE AGING AND DECLINE
Cleveland Clinic: The Health Benefits and Side Effects of Butyrate
