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Gut microbiota

Fibre restores healthy gut microbiota

Nature Reviews Endocrinology volume 14, page 63 (2018)Cite this article

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In humans, the metabolic syndrome is associated with changes in the composition of the gut microbiota. Researchers hypothesize that diets rich in processed foods and low in dietary fibre disrupt the symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiota and the intestine. A disrupted host–microbiota relationship results in gut bacteria infiltrating the inner mucus layer, where they can interact with gut epithelial cells and promote inflammation.

Data from Gewirtz's group indicates that a harmonious relationship between the gut microbiota and the intestine promotes metabolic health. When the gut and intestine are in harmony, the gut bacteria reside in the outer mucus layer and the inner mucus layer is largely free from bacteria.

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References

  1. Zou, J. et al. Fiber-mediated nourishment of gut microbiota protects against diet-induced obesity by restoring IL-22-mediated colonic health. Cell Host Microbe http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2017.11.003 (2017)

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  1. Alan Morris
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Morris, A. Fibre restores healthy gut microbiota. Nat Rev Endocrinol 14, 63 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2017.182

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