Influence of diet on the modulation of gut microbiota and its neurobiological effects on cognition: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Introduction: The gut microbiota, a key regulator of the gut-brain axis, is profoundly influenced by diet, and its modulation through dietary patterns may play a critical role in mitigating mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Objective: To evaluate whether dietary interventions modify gut microbiota composition in individuals with MCI and to determine whether these microbiota changes are associated with variations in cognitive function.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Randomized clinical trials and observational studies evaluating dietary exposures, gut microbiota, and cognitive outcomes in adults with MCI were included. Data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment were performed using standardized and validated tools. When applicable, pooled effects on cognition were estimated using random-effects models and between-study heterogeneity was quantified.
Results: Of 3,029 records identified, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria (nine randomized trials and two observational studies), with a weighted mean age of 65.24 years. Gut microbiota differed between normal cognition and MCI-beneficial taxa (e.g. Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium) predominated in normal cognition, while potentially taxa more frequently reported in pro-inflammatory/dysbiosis-associated profiles (e.g. Ruminococcus, Enterobacteriaceae) were higher in MCI. The pooled effect showed a…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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