Recently, researchers from Italy highlighted the impact of our diet on our gut microbiol and how our dietary choices can put us at risk of developing diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. disease inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Alzheimer’s disease.
Specifically, according to overview A study published in the journal Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology shows that a Western-style diet is low in plant-based molecules such as fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and high in saturated fat, refined grains, and sugar. and salt, seriously threatens it health.
Let’s take a closer look at the findings of scientists.
How gut bacteria are affected by diet
The review authors highlighted the important role that certain bacteria play in maintaining the intestinal mucous. According to the results, a diet high in “bad” fat is associated with lower amounts of “good” gut bacteria.
At the same time, a low-fiber diet reduces the production of short-chain fatty acids, interferes with the regulation of T-cells (a type of lymphocyte that plays a central role in acquired immunity) and some other immune functions.
Eating fast food more than once a week has been linked to an increased risk of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). In fact, this bad eating habit can increase the risk of ulceration colitis by 43% and the risk of Crohn’s disease by 27%.
Similarly, the authors noted that a high intake of meat and fish increased the risk of IBD.
Overall, research suggests that high intakes of red meat, highly processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat are risk factors for the development of IBD as well as the onset of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Effects of diet on brain health
Studies show that a diet high in saturated fat and sugar negatively affects cognitive ability over time.
Pre- and probiotics appear to have some early potential to improve some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, but scientists say more research is needed.
Nutrition and obesity
Finally, researchers analyzed a study on metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes to find that poor nutrition can increase inflammation and lead to obesity, a key predictor of the development of type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases. diseases.
Scientists argue that the relationship between the Western diet and metabolic syndrome can be explained both by the direct effect of the poor nutritional characteristics of the diet on systemic inflammation and obesity, and by changes in the intestinal microbiota, which indirectly lead to these health problems.