According to a recent study, our gut problems make it easy for a very harmful neurotoxin BF-LPS to enter the brain and contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s.
The researchers found the way how BF-LPS enters the brain and leads there ultimately to brain cell (neurons) death, as observed in neurons, affected by Alzheimer’s.
So, where does this harmfull BF-LPS come from?
BF-LPS is a natural by-product of the specific bacteria (Gram-negative bacteria Bacteroides fragilis) in our gut. The abundance of these specific bacteria generates the neurotoxin BF-LPS.
Once generated, BF-LPS leaks out the gastrointestinal tract, crosses the blood-brain barrier via the circulatory system, and accesses brain compartments. There it increases inflammation in neurons and inhibits the work of a protein that supports neuron integrity (neurofilament light or NF-L). This results in progressive atrophy of neurons, and ultimately their death.
The good news is that you can prevent the generation of BF-LPS from the specific gut bacteria by eating an adequate amount of dietary fiber as fiber can head off the process.
The USDA recommends for women (up to age 50) – 25 grams/day and men – 38 grams/day. Over age 50, women and men should consume 21 and 30 grams daily, respectively.
To give you an example, 25 grams of fiber a day you’ll achieve by combining:
1 cup of cooked quinoa,
½ cup of boiled lentils,
1 cup of chopped boiled broccoli,
2 servings of fruits, and
1 tablespoon of (flax)seeds or a handful of mixed nuts.
Last, but not least, please, don’t forget that too much fiber (more than 45 grams/day) can harm your health leading f.e. to abdominal pain, weight loss and malabsorption of minerals from food.
