Influence of nuts on the microbiome
Table of Contents
1. The microbiome is defined
The gut microbiome is a group of organisms composed mainly of bacteria, but also of fungi that colonize the digestive system, and especially its final part, the large intestine. It consists of about 1000 species with a common genome containing about 100 times more genes than that of humans.2. Microbes play a role in the body
The gut microbiome performs many different functions that are usually associated with biosynthesis, i.e. the production or metabolism of substances. One of the products of the microbiota butyric acid, produced by fermentation from undigested carbohydrates, is the main source of energy for the cells of the intestinal fiber, but it also strengthens the function of the gut barrier. It seals it and modulates the immune response.3. The effects of diet on microbes
Similar species of microbes can be seen among people living together who share common eating habits. Not surprisingly, since diet is one of the factors that regulates the composition and differentiation of the microbiota. Large differences can also be seen between healthy people and those suffering from various diseases. This is why the hypothesis has emerged that there is a clear link between health and gut microbiote.4. The effect of nuts on the microbiome
One of the ingredients that may influence microbiota modulation is nuts. Nuts are a source of unsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, and fiber, which affect not only the microbes colonizing the gut of adults, but also the entire diet. However, although the most recent research has shown that small changes are easier to introduce. The following studies have also shown a positive effect on the diet of animals, especially on the biochemical characteristics of the microbiome. The results of the study show that bacteria and bacteria that feed on healthy foods can only feed on prebiotics and dietary supplements.5. Nuts aren't enough to change the microbiota
While there is no doubt that recent studies in both animals and humans have encouraged optimism, however, as the researchers point out, the effect of nuts is not as spectacular as it may seem. This is confirmed by scientific work (S. Galie et al. 2021), in which two research groups conducted tests comparing the effects of the Mediterranean diet and the inclusion of one portion of the nuts in each menu to change the nutritional value of the nutrients to the nutrient. As it turned out, diet had a significantly better effect on microorganisms, as well as increased the potency of the less beneficial microbial nutrients.