Gut bacteria cocktail could signal early dementia signs study finds

Bacteria and chemical compounds in the human digestive system could be used to diagnose early signs of dementia, according to a report by the Daily Mail. Researchers found that a cocktail of biomarkers in the gut may also indicate how rapidly a person's memory and thinking abilities could deteriorate. [1]

The research team was led by Professor Paul Morgan at Cardiff University. Professor Morgan stated that the findings suggest the gut could provide a window into events occurring in the brain during the earliest stages of cognitive decline. [1]

To reach these conclusions, scientists analysed faecal samples collected from 35 older adults, with the majority of participants being living couples, the Daily Mail reported. [1]

Understanding early indicators of cognitive health remains a major focus for medical researchers. As FTMQ News reported earlier, previous research from the University of Pittsburgh showed that adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder face more than four times the risk of developing dementia or mild cognitive impairment. [6]