Scientists from the University of Aberdeen’s Rowett Institute will be conducting research into possible links between diet and Alzheimers.

The groundbreaking study will be looking for participants in local care homes. It will explore gut microbiota as a key link between specific nutrients and brain function.

Gut microbia, found in the intestine contain “tens of trillions of microorganisms, including at least 1000 different species of known bacteria.”

Professor Alex Johnstone from the University of Aberdeen’s Rowett Institute said:

“It has become evident that there is a two-way communication between the gut microbiome and the brain. That relationship is not yet fully understood but the goal for us is to identify whether changes in diet can affect the clinical symptoms associated with dementia.

“This study is the first of its kind and could lead to the possibility of dietary intervention as a solution to prevent behavioural and psychosocial issues which are associated with adverse outcomes as well as distressing to people with dementia, their family and carers.

 “We want to explore whether or not the gut-brain axis plays a key role in behavioural changes in dementia.”

The research funded by Tenovus Scotland Grampian, The Scottish Government and NHS Grampian Endowments if successful could act as the first step towards establishing a link between diet and behaviour.