Brazilian researchers have been looking at the interesting potential of a probiotic, kefir, to blunt the harmful effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Initial synthesis of the review included seven studies. The aim of this study was to determine whether kefir can act as a protective supplement in patients with this neurodegenerative disease. Yet today, Alzheimer’s disease only affects an estimated 7 million Americans. Experts estimate that this number could almost double in just the next 25 years.
While looking at these issues, the review included a wide variety of studies. It included only one study that had human participants, four with rodents, and two that used flies. The human study, especially, was limited to just 90 days and 13 participants with a confirmed diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Each participant was provided with a daily kefir supplementation. Each of them consumed 2 mL of kefir, adjusted for their body weight.
“While early studies – mostly in animals and lab settings – suggest that kefir may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, we are still in the early stages of understanding how this might translate to people with Alzheimer’s. It’s promising, but more clinical research is needed before we can make definitive recommendations.”— Joel Salinas, MD, MBA, MSc, FAAN
Kefir is gaining a reputation as a super probiotic well beyond its Tibetan origins. These probiotics are thought to benefit brain by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress. These processes are particularly important in the setting of Alzheimer’s dementia, where these pernicious processes can lead to cognitive impairment.
“Dietary interventions like kefir may complement these treatments by supporting brain health and overall well-being,” explained Salinas.
The findings from the Brazilian review highlight the need for more extensive clinical studies to better understand how kefir might be integrated into Alzheimer's disease management. Current evidence provides a compelling rationale for the biological basis of kefir’s tremendous benefits. We need more research to completely back up these assertions.
“While the biological rationale is strong, more robust clinical studies are necessary before recommending kefir as a routine component of [Alzheimer’s] management.”— Gliebus
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