The effect of probiotic supplements on cognitive outcomes and neuroplasticity in elderly ischemic stroke survivors

This retrospective cohort study investigates the effects of probiotic supplementation on the nutritional, cognitive, and motor functions of elderly survivors recovering from ischemic stroke. Given the high prevalence of nutritional deficits and cognitive impairments in this population, exploring adjunct therapies such as probiotics could provide improved outcomes.

The study included 223 elderly ischemic stroke survivors treated between March 2021 and February 2024, divided into two groups based on treatment modalities: the Conventional Group (n = 117) receiving standard enteral nutrition, and the Supplement Group (n = 106) receiving similar nutrition plus probiotics. Data collected included NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS), nutritional indicators, cognitive assessments (MMSE, HDS, CDR, SES), and motor evaluations (STREAM, mRS, MBI).

Baseline comparisons showed no significant differences between groups. Post-treatment outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in the Supplement Group across several measures. Neurotrophic and nutritional parameters, including BDNF, hemoglobin, albumin, and prealbumin levels, significantly increased (p ≤ 0.011). Cognitive function also improved, with higher MMSE and HDS scores and reduced CDR scores (p < 0.003). Motor function, evaluated by STREAM, showed enhanced upper and lower limb mobility and basic activities (p ≤ 0.014). Further, participants in the Supplement Group experienced better functional recovery with decreased mRS scores and increased MBI scores (p < 0.004). The incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events was significantly reduced in the Supplement Group (p < 0.001), and correlation analysis underscored positive associations between probiotics and improved outcomes (p ≤ 0.003).

Probiotic supplementation as part of nutritional therapy significantly enhances nutritional, cognitive, and motor function recovery in elderly ischemic stroke survivors, while also reducing gastrointestinal adverse events. These findings suggest that incorporating probiotics into recovery protocols post-stroke may facilitate better health outcomes and provide a well-tolerated therapeutic adjunct.