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Gut microbiota, sleep quality, and cognitive function in adults: A systematic review
Hesam A Varpaei1, Lorraine B Robbins1, Mathew J Reeves2
1College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
Sleep Medicine
|February 11, 2026
Summary
Optimal sleep and cognitive function in adults are linked to greater gut microbial diversity. Higher microbial diversity correlates with better sleep quality and cognitive performance, mediated by brain connectivity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Gut microbiota and sleep quality are crucial for cognitive function.
- A systematic review on the combined effect of gut microbiota and sleep on cognitive function in adults was lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between sleep quality (efficiency, total sleep time) and gut microbiota composition in relation to cognitive function in adults.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.
- Searched five online databases for original studies assessing cognitive function, sleep quality, and gut microbiota.
- Included 21 studies (2,901 patients), predominantly cross-sectional.
Main Results:
- Objective sleep measures correlate with greater gut microbial diversity, positively impacting cognitive function via brain connectivity.
- Chronic insomnia is associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis.
- Probiotic supplementation improved sleep quality and cognitive function in patients with cognitive impairment.
Conclusions:
- A complex, reciprocal relationship exists between sleep quality, gut microbiota, and cognitive function in adults.
- Optimal sleep and cognition are linked to higher gut microbial diversity.
- A significant research gap exists in understanding this triad in individuals with cardiovascular diseases.
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