Chronic conditions related to metabolism and the immune system are increasing, with links to an imbalanced gut microbiome that can potentially be causative and therapeutic targets. A recent review highlighted the impact of the Western diet on the microbiome and the subsequent dysregulation on the risk of developing chronic conditions. The Western diet was characterized as low in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and plant-based foods while containing excessive saturated fats, sugars, processed meats, and high-fat dairy products. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet was noted for its nutrient-rich plant-based foods with lower levels of processed foods. Certain bacteria found in the gut, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, play a role in maintaining gut lining and lean muscle mass.
The review also discussed how high-fat diets, especially ones rich in saturated fats, negatively impact certain gut bacteria levels, leading to dysbiosis. A low-fiber diet reduces the production of short-chain fatty acids essential for mucus production and immune regulation. Bifidobacteria, which promote anti-inflammatory responses and aid in gut absorption, are also affected by high saturated fat intake. Artificial sweeteners and fast food consumption have been associated with decreased levels of beneficial gut bacteria and increased risk of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). High intakes of red meat, ultra-processed foods, and saturated fats are suggested risk factors for IBD development.
Furthermore, the review examined how metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes may be linked to gut dysbiosis and inflammation caused by a poor Western diet. This dysregulation of the gut barrier increases inflammation, leading to chronic conditions and fat accumulation that can precede type 2 diabetes. While the review did not establish causation, it suggested that the Western diet’s nutrient deficiencies and impact on gut microbiota contribute to systemic inflammation and obesity, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. Hasan Zaki, an expert in inflammatory disorders, emphasized the significant role of diet in altering the microbiome composition, shifting our understanding of how diet impacts chronic disease development beyond metabolic effects.
Overall, the reviewed research shed light on the complex interactions between diet, gut microbiome, and chronic conditions, highlighting the need for further exploration into specific bacteria, components, and metabolic products responsible for disease development. The identification of certain dietary patterns and their effects on gut bacteria roles in human physiology may offer new insights into preventive and therapeutic strategies for chronic conditions. Understanding the mechanisms by which the Western diet disrupts the gut microbiome and influences immune responses can pave the way for personalized dietary interventions to reduce the risk of developing metabolic and inflammatory disorders. As the global burden of chronic conditions continues to rise, research into the gut microbiome’s role in disease development becomes increasingly significant in informing public health strategies and personalized treatment approaches.
