The Connection Between the Gut Microbiome and Brain Health

As the common saying goes “you are what you eat” it has been recognized that the food we consume impacts our health, but can it directly impact our brain health?

A review article published in Aging Neuroscience explored the connection between dysfunction in the gut microbiome and the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and multiple sclerosis (MS) among others. 

The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) has been recognized as an important regulator of brain health. Changes in the microbiota of the gut were found to contribute to neuroinflammation, dysfunction of the blood brain barrier, neurotransmitter imbalance and microglial activation. 

The human gut microbiota is an immense and diverse community of microorganisms inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract. It is estimated to include 100 trillion microbes, ten times more cells that that of the entire human body. These microorganisms aide in digestion, nutrient extraction, short chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, maintenance of the gut barrier and immune system regulation. There is increasing evidence that imbalances in the gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis, are associated with a range of health dysfunctions including the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. 

Studies have found that the microbiota composition is altered in those diagnosed with AD. Evidence has shown there to be specific overgrowths of species and reduced total diversity and increased inflammatory markers. Not all individuals impacted by neurodegenerative changes experience GI symptoms, but many do describe dealing with constipation, gas, bloat, diarrhea, acid reflux and increasing food sensitivities.  It has been shown that changes in the gut can precede the development of neurodegenerative symptoms by decades. While more research needs to be performed, initial studies in animal and human models indicate that microbiome focused interventions can improve cognitive outcomes. 

Potential therapeutic interventions that could support gut and brain health include consuming a fiber-rich diet as well as fermented foods containing pre and probiotics, supporting digestive enzyme release, removing potential pathogens or overgrowths from the gastrointestinal system and limiting foods that may contribute to inflammation and harming the gut microbiome. Supplementation with SCFAs, prebiotics, probiotics, anti-inflammatory nutrients and digestive enzyme support could also improve gut health and brain health. 

To protect your gut and brain health, consume a diverse diet full of colorful fruits and vegetables, reduce intake of microbiome-harming foods and utilize gut-supporting supplementation when appropriate. 

Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2025.1667448/full