Mixed
Aging is associated with distinct shifts in gut microbiome composition and function, specifically an increase in Akkermansia and short-chain fatty acid production in the oldest-old, alongside a reduction in Faecalibacterium and amino acid synthesis pathways.
As you age, your gut microbiome changes in specific ways that may support longevity. Key changes include an increase in Akkermansia (often linked to metabolic health) and butyrate production, and a decrease in Faecalibacterium. While you cannot directly 'take' these bacteria, maintaining a diet rich in fibers that support these specific taxa (like polyphenols for Akkermansia) may align with these healthy aging patterns. Focus on whole foods rather than just 'diversity' supplements.
Akkermansia was most consistently reported to be relatively more abundant with aging, whereas Faecalibacterium, Bacteroidaceae, and Lachnospiraceae were relatively reduced. ... oldest-old adults exhibited functional differences that distinguished their microbiota from that of young-old adults, such as greater potential for short-chain fatty acid production and increased butyrate derivatives.
Why this rating
Based on 27 empirical human studies, but limited by cross-sectional design and lack of longitudinal data.
Source
The Gut Microbiome, Aging, and Longevity: A Systematic Review
Varsha D. Badal et al. · Nutrients · 2020
DOI 10.3390/nu12123759
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