A high-fiber diet may slow the onset of Huntington's Disease
The results of a study published in Brain Behavior and Immunity indicate that dietary fiber could postpone the onset of Huntington's Disease symptoms.
There is presently no cure or effective treatment for Huntington's, which often hits people in their prime and is always fatal. The earliest symptoms are often subtle. Mood or mental function is altered. A lack of coordination and unsteadiness often are next. As the disease progresses, uncoordinated involuntary body movements appear. Physical abilities gradually worsen until coordinated movement becomes difficult and the person loses the ability to speak. Mental abilities generally degenerate into dementia, depression, apathy, and sometimes impulsiveness. Symptoms usually begin between 30 and 50 years of age, commonly around the age of 40.
Mouse Model Study
The research team explored the possibility of dietary interventions reducing Huntington's symptoms. They tested high, medium, and zero intake of dietary fiber in mice carrying the human disease gene mutation. The study showed that high-fiber consumption improved digestive function, cognition, and behavior. The study showed that dietary fiber can help modulate Huntington's disease through the microbiome-gut-brain connections. This is consistent with the previous discovery that the gut microbiome is altered in those with Huntington's disease.
Professor Hannan said the results could also have implications for other brain disorders which show altered brain-gut interaction, such as depression and dementia. Further research is planned for these.
The Florey team is now planning to work with Australian and international colleagues to establish a clinical trial to test whether such a high-fiber diet is beneficial in humans.
Source: MedXpress
