Gut decisions: Eggs, microbiome and cognition

Previously it was thought that cognition was regulated only by the central nervous system However, there is increasing evidence demonstrating that changes in the gut microbiota can alter brain physiology and behaviour.

The overall aim of this project is to examine the human gut microbiome in response to egg consumption (compared to no egg consumption) and explore other clinical outcomes, including cognition and potential mediating factors such as inflammation regulation in younger and older adults. This proposal explores whether consumption of eggs can enhance gut microbiome diversity and help in understanding how cognition, particularly decision-making performance can be improved and thereby assist in cognitive function particularly in older adults.