The recent 5th ILSI Europe Symposium on Nutrition for the Ageing Brain (2), held in Chania, Crete, offered powerful insights into how everyday dietary choices and lifestyle factors can profoundly shape our brain health as we age. Experts across disciplines—including neuroscience, nutrition, oral health, socio-economics, and digital technologies—came together to explore the intricate interplay between nutrition and neurocognitive ageing.

A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the nutrition–immune–brain axis, and how dietary components can influence neuroinflammation, a key driver of cognitive decline. For instance, phytochemicals found in berries were highlighted for their role in maintaining cognitive function and reducing dementia risk. The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet, another topic of interest, may affect the metabolism of tryptophan, providing potential neuroprotective effects (3). Conversely, one speaker presented results indicating that excessive intake of foods rich in sugar, fats, salt, and additives, classified as ultra-processed by the NOVA system (4, 5), has been associated with depressive symptoms and neuroinflammation. Gut infections were also cited as potential triggers of brain inflammation, further illustrating the complexity of the gut–brain connection.

Importantly, this symposium was not just about science. It was also about building a community. Participants valued the opportunity to forge connections across sectors and geographies, reinforcing the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing the challenges of ageing populations. The next edition, tentatively planned for 2027, is already highly anticipated.

Across the Atlantic, ILSI US & Canada is addressing another key aspect of healthy ageing: sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass and function in older adults. Despite being officially recognized as a disease in the 10th Edition of the International Classification of Diseases in 2016 (6), sarcopenia remains underdiagnosed and under-discussed in clinical practice (7). This low visibility hinders both prevention and early intervention—leaving many older adults at increased risk of frailty, falls, and loss of independence.

To tackle this, ILSI US & Canada has launched a sarcopenia awareness campaign, targeting healthcare professionals as a first step (8). By providing education on risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment options, the initiative aims to empower clinicians to better support their ageing patients. In a later phase, the campaign will expand to reach older adults directly, with actionable messages on how to maintain muscle health through diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits.

With the global rise in metabolic health challenges and growing interest in gut health, ILSI Europe is developing a new expert activity focused on prebiotics and weight management. This upcoming initiative, led by the Prebiotics Task Force (9), will explore the potential of prebiotics to support weight control both as standalone interventions and in combination with pharmacological treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists.

The group will investigate mechanisms such as Short-Chain Fatty Acid production, stimulation of gut hormones, and modulation of the gut microbiome to better understand how prebiotics may enhance satiety, metabolic regulation, and treatment adherence (10, 11). There is also strong interest in how prebiotics might reduce common side effects of GLP-1 analogues—such as gastrointestinal discomfort—potentially improving user experience and long-term compliance.

With a scheduled start in Q2 2026, this activity will also provide a scientific foundation for personalisation strategies, identifying factors that explain why individuals respond differently to prebiotic interventions. For industry stakeholders, this work could open new avenues for innovation in functional foods, supplements, and adjunct therapies for metabolic wellness. There is still time to join!

Meanwhile, ILSI Southeast Asia (SEA) Region continues to support evidence-based regulation by convening dialogue between science and policy. On 23 September 2025, it will host a Regional Seminar on Nutrition Labelling and Claims in Selangor, Malaysia (12). Since 2001, ILSI SEA Region’s seminar series has fostered cross-sector and cross-country collaboration by bringing together regulatory authorities, scientists, and industry representatives.

The upcoming edition will provide an overview of current and emerging policies across Southeast Asia and neighbouring regions. It will also address scientific substantiation and harmonisation efforts related to front-of-pack labelling, nutrient labelling, and nutrition and health claims—key issues for building consumer trust and enabling innovation across markets.

This regional effort aligns with ILSI Europe’s recent work on scientific criteria for claims substantiation and showcases how different ILSI entities complement each other while addressing region-specific priorities.

Evidence-based, collaborative science is essential for shaping effective, practical health strategies. Whether through regional dialogues, expert group activities, or public awareness campaigns, the ILSI network fosters a scientific environment where trust, rigour, and application go hand in hand. As the ILSI Federation continues to grow and evolve, so does its potential to connect science with real-world impact and improve global public health. At ILSI Europe, we are proud to be part of this international effort and look forward to continuing our collaboration with peers across the world.