Knowledge of the Role of Nutrition and Gut Microbiota in Alzheimer's Disease Among Students in the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Nutrition and Dietetics

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge level of students in the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Nutrition and Dietetics at Bahçeşehir University (BAU) regarding the role of nutrition and gut microbiota in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Materials and Methods: A descriptive research design was employed to measure the knowledge level of first- and second-year students from the Faculties of Medicine and Nutrition and Dietetics at BAU regarding the role of nutrition and gut microbiota in AD. A 23-question questionnaire was administered, divided into five sections: (1) Demographic characteristics, (2) Understanding of AD, (3) Understanding of the relationship between nutrition and AD, (4) Understanding of the relationship between nutrition and gut microbiota, and (5) Understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota and AD. The questionnaire included two types of closed-ended questions: (1) Dichotomous and (2) Multiple-choice questions. Results: Medical students demonstrated a higher overall knowledge level compared to Nutrition and Dietetics students. However, within both faculties, first-year students exhibited a greater understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota and AD than second-year students. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of early education in establishing a strong knowledge foundation. Addressing these knowledge gaps will better prepare future healthcare professionals to understand the impact of nutrition and gut microbiota on AD.