Theses and Dissertations Collection

There is increasing evidence of an association between the gut microbiome and brain behavior, which has come to be known as the gut-brain axis (Gareau, 2016; Beilharz, Kaakoush, Maniam, & Morris, 2017). The gut microbiome may be a key determinant of cognitive function, encompassing processes such as memory, attention, language, problem-solving, planning, and perception (Okon-Singer, et al., 2015). Dysbiosis and alterations of the gut microbiome may contribute to the development of diseases in humans and is evident in those with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (Jiang, et al., 2017). Consistent probiotic consumption through fermented food sources may alter the gut microbiome, potentially improving cognitive outcomes and reducing cognitive decline.

This pilot study aimed to determine the effect of dairy-based probiotic consumption on cognitive outcomes among 47 older adults (ages 50-98 years old) over a twelve-week period. Participants were randomized to consume one six-ounce yogurt containing probiotics each day (treatment, n=24), or to avoid yogurt and other fermented food over the course of the study (control, n=23). Tests to assess cognitive outcomes were administered at baseline and at the end of the 12-week intervention. Analysis of variance indicated no clear evidence that daily dairy-based probiotic consumption over 12-weeks influenced cognitive outcomes in older adults.