Chewing Gum and Intermittent Fasting May Boost Brain Health in Aging Adults
Researchers at King's College London investigated whether two simple interventions could combat age-related cognitive decline. The study tested intermittent energy restriction (eating very low calories for 2 days, then normal eating for 5 days) and regular chewing gum use in 123 participants over 3 months. Scientists measured cognitive performance related to hippocampal neurogenesis - the brain's ability to generate new neurons in the memory center. They also tracked levels of Klotho, an anti-aging protein that declines with age. This completed trial represents an innovative approach to brain health, combining accessible dietary patterns with mechanical stimulation through chewing to potentially enhance neural stem cell function and preserve cognitive abilities during aging.