Could changing your gut bacteria protect your memory?

NCT ID NCT06039267

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: George Washington University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looked at the gut microbiome (the bacteria living in the digestive tract) of 44 people with mild cognitive impairment, early Alzheimer's, or healthy memory. Researchers wanted to see if lifestyle changes could alter the gut microbiome and whether those changes might be linked to brain health. The goal was to gather pilot data for designing a larger trial, not to test a specific treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could help design future trials testing whether lifestyle changes that alter gut bacteria can slow memory decline.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage observational study with only 44 participants. It does not test a treatment, so it cannot prove that microbiome changes directly affect brain health.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Alzheimer disease type 1 Cognitive Dysfunction dementia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE 1 MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT MILD DEMENTIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences

Washington D.C., District of Columbia, 20037, United States

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