Gut bacteria linked to brain aging, UCLA study finds
A UCLA study has linked gut bacteria to how fast the brain ages. The research covered nearly 1,500 adults across three groups.
Researchers built a Brain Aging Index from brain scans. It measures the gap between brain age and actual age.
People with older-looking brains had distinct gut bacteria and metabolic byproducts. They also scored worse on memory tests.
The study was published in eBioMedicine in September 2026. Senior author Dr Arpana Church led the work.
The findings do not prove gut health causes brain aging. But they open the door to future prevention strategies.
The brain scans measured how regions communicate at rest. The team used a computer model to estimate brain age. A higher index means the brain looks older than the person’s age. Such brains were linked to weaker memory and more depressive symptoms. The gut samples revealed specific bacteria and metabolites. Researchers said diet and lifestyle trials could follow.
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