Dietary whole grain–microbiota interactions: insights into mechanisms for human health

Different Levels of Therapeutic Strategies to Recover the Microbiome to Prevent/Delay Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) or Arrest Its Progression in Children

Changes in the components, variety, metabolism, and products of microbiomes, particularly of the gut microbiome (GM), have been revealed to be closely associated with the onset and progression of numerous human illnesses, including hematological neoplasms. Among the latter pathologies, there is acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most widespread malignant neoplasm in pediatric subjects. Accordingly, ALL cases present a typical dysfunctional GM during all its clinical stages and resulting inflammation, which contributes to its progression, altered response to therapy, and possible relapses. Children with ALL have GM with characteristic variations in composition, variety, and functions, and such alterations may influence and predict the complications and prognosis of ALL after chemotherapy treatment or stem cell hematopoietic transplants. In addition, growing evidence also reports the ability of GM to influence the formation, growth, and roles of the newborn's hematopoietic system through the process of developmental programming during fetal life as well as its susceptibility to the onset of onco-hematological pathologies, namely ALL. Here, we suggest some therapeutic strategies that can be applied at two levels of intervention to recover the microbiome and consequently prevent/delay ALL or arrest its progression.

Effects of Animal and Vegetable Proteins on Gut Microbiota in Subjects with Overweight or Obesity

The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the balance between host health and obesity. The composition of the gut microbiota can be influenced by external factors, among which diet plays a key role. As the source of dietary protein is important to achieve weight loss and gut microbiota modulation, in the literature there is increasing evidence to suggest consuming more plant proteins than animal proteins. In this review, a literature search of clinical trials published until February 2023 was conducted to examine the effect of different macronutrients and dietary patterns on the gut microbiota in subjects with overweight and obesity. Several studies have shown that a higher intake of animal protein, as well as the Western diet, can lead to a decrease in beneficial gut bacteria and an increase in harmful ones typical of obesity. On the other hand, diets rich in plant proteins, such as the Mediterranean diet, lead to a significant increase in anti-inflammatory butyrate-producing bacteria, bacterial diversity and a reduction in pro-inflammatory bacteria. Therefore, since diets rich in fiber, plant protein, and an adequate amount of unsaturated fat may help to beneficially modulate the gut microbiota involved in weight loss, further studies are needed.

Evaluating the prebiotic effect of oligosaccharides on gut microbiome wellness using in vitro fecal fermentation

We previously proposed the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index (GMWI), a predictor of disease presence based on a gut microbiome taxonomic profile. As an application of this index for food science research, we applied GMWI as a quantitative tool for measuring the prebiotic effect of oligosaccharides. Mainly, in an in vitro anaerobic batch fermentation system, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), xylooligosaccharides (XOS), inulin (IN), and 2'-fucosyllactose (2FL), were mixed separately with fecal samples obtained from healthy adult volunteers. To find out how 24 h prebiotic fermentation influenced the GMWI values in their respective microbial communities, changes in species-level relative abundances were analyzed in the five prebiotics groups, as well as in two control groups (no substrate addition at 0 h and for 24 h). The GMWI of fecal microbiomes treated with any of the five prebiotics (IN (0.48 ± 0.06) > FOS (0.47 ± 0.03) > XOS (0.33 ± 0.02) > GOS (0.26 ± 0.02) > 2FL (0.16 ± 0.06)) were positive, which indicates an increase of relative abundances of microbial species previously found to be associated with a healthy, disease-free state. In contrast, the GMWI of samples without substrate addition for 24 h (-0.60 ± 0.05) reflected a non-healthy, disease-harboring microbiome state. Compared to the original prebiotic index (PI) and α-diversity metrics, GMWI provides a more data-driven, evidence-based indexing system for evaluating the prebiotic effect of food components. This study demonstrates how GMWI can be applied as a novel PI in dietary intervention studies, with wider implications for designing personalized diets based on their impact on gut microbiome wellness.

Antibiotic associated diarrhea in outpatient pediatric antibiotic therapy

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is one of the most frequent side effects of antimicrobial therapy. We assessed the epidemiological data of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in pediatric patients in our region.

METHODS

The prospective multi-center study included pediatric patients who were initiated an oral antibiotic course in outpatient clinics and followed in a well-established surveillance system. This follow-up system constituded inclusion of patient by the primary physician, supply of family follow-up charts to the family, passing the demographics and clinical information of patient to the Primary Investigator Centre, and a close telephone follow-up of patients for a period of eight weeks by the Primary Investigator Centre.

RESULTS

A result of 758 cases were recruited in the analysis which had a frequency of 10.4% antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Among the cases treated with amoxicillin-clavulanate 10.4%, and cephalosporins 14.4% presented with antibiotic-associated diarrhea. In the analysis of antibiotic-associated diarrhea occurrence according to different geographical regions of Turkey, antibiotic-associated diarrhea episodes differed significantly (p = 0.014), particularly higher in The Eastern Anatolia and Southeastern Anatolia. Though most commonly encountered with cephalosporin use, antibiotic-associated diarrhea is not a frequent side effect.

CONCLUSION

This study on pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea displayed epidemiological data and the differences geographically in our region.

Differences in cognition, short-chain fatty acids and related metabolites in pregnant versus non-pregnant women: a cross-sectional study

Background

Pregnancy induces cognitive reorganization which can lead to mental disorders. The aim of this study is to determine differences in cognitive scores, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and related metabolites between pregnant and non-pregnant participants.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 67 full-term pregnant women and 31 non-pregnant women. We compared scores of mental state and cognitive assessment tests, as well as serum concentrations of SCFAs, hormones, inflammatory factors, and neurotransmitters between these groups.

Results

Scores for information processing speed, immediate visual memory, motor response speed and accuracy, execution ability and verbal use ability in the pregnant group were lower than those in the non-pregnant group (p < 0.05 for all tests). Total serum SCFAs in the pregnant group were significantly lower than those in the non-pregnant group (P = 0.031). Among them, acetate and propionate were significantly decreased (P = 0.013 and 0.037, respectively) whereas butyrate was significantly increased (P = 0.035). Serum peptide YY, glucagon-like peptide-1, γ-aminobutyric acid, and dopamine showed no differences between the two groups. However, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and acetylcholine were significantly increased in the pregnant group as compared with the non-pregnant group (P = 0.039, 0.016, and 0.012, respectively). Tumor necrosis factor-α was increased and interleukin-10 significantly decreased in the pregnant group (P = 0.045 and 0.019, respectively).

Conclusion

According to our study findings, cognitive reorganization in the third trimester of pregnancy showed that both the passive storage capacity of working memory and the executive function of online information processing were decreased to varying degrees. At the same time, the changes in total SCFAs, the proportions of SCFAs and related metabolites were also detected. These changes in the internal environment may be increasing the risk of perinatal mental illness.

Dietary Influences on Gut Microbiota with a Focus on Metabolic Syndrome

There is a clear correlation between gut microbiota, diet, and metabolic outcomes. A diet high in fiber has been shown to decrease inflammation, increase insulin sensitivity, and reduce dyslipidemias whereas a diet high in fat and sugar leads to dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation. There is recent evidence suggesting that the human gut microbiota has a significant role in the development or the resolution of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and associated conditions. Leading a stressful, sedentary lifestyle with limited or no physical activity and consuming an unhealthy diet high in saturated fat, simple carbohydrates, and sodium and low in dietary fiber and in high-quality protein are some of the contributing factors. Unhealthy diets have been shown to induce alterations in the gut microbiota and contribute to the pathogenesis of MetS by altering microbiota composition and disrupting the intestinal barrier, which leads to low-grade systemic inflammation. In contrast, healthy diets can lead to changes in microbiota that increase gut barrier function and increase the production of anti-inflammatory biomarkers. This review aims at providing a more in-depth discussion of diet-induced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its effect on MetS. Here, we discuss the possible mechanisms involved in the development of the metabolic biomarkers that define MetS, with an emphasis on the role of sugar and dietary fiber in microbiome-mediated changes in low-grade systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

Dietary Regulation of Gut-Brain Axis in Alzheimer's Disease: Importance of Microbiota Metabolites

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that impacts 45 million people worldwide and is ranked as the 6th top cause of death among all adults by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While genetics is an important risk factor for the development of AD, environment and lifestyle are also contributing risk factors. One such environmental factor is diet, which has emerged as a key influencer of AD development/progression as well as cognition. Diets containing large quantities of saturated/trans-fats, refined carbohydrates, limited intake of fiber, and alcohol are associated with cognitive dysfunction while conversely diets low in saturated/trans-fats (i.e., bad fats), high mono/polyunsaturated fats (i.e., good fats), high in fiber and polyphenols are associated with better cognitive function and memory in both humans and animal models. Mechanistically, this could be the direct consequence of dietary components (lipids, vitamins, polyphenols) on the brain, but other mechanisms are also likely to be important. Diet is considered to be the single greatest factor influencing the intestinal microbiome. Diet robustly influences the types and function of micro-organisms (called microbiota) that reside in the gastrointestinal tract. Availability of different types of nutrients (from the diet) will favor or disfavor the abundance and function of certain groups of microbiota. Microbiota are highly metabolically active and produce many metabolites and other factors that can affect the brain including cognition and the development and clinical progression of AD. This review summarizes data to support a model in which microbiota metabolites influence brain function and AD.

Nutrition in Cancer Patients Positive for COVID-19; Case Series and a Systematic Review of Literature

Cancer is making patients vulnerable to diseases by impairing immunity directly or by anticancer therapy. In COVID-19 era, it is mandatory to face cancer with more organized & prompter response. Nutrition plays an important role in prevention & management of cancer patients. The objective of this study is to understand the role of nutrition in cancer patients during Corvid 19 era. We conducted literature searches till May 2020, electronic databases, evidence-based collections, relevant websites and trial registries about SARS-CoV2/COVID-19 and nutrition in cancer patients. Search generated 836 sources; 83/836 sources were relevant. This review summarized role of nutrition in predisposition, prevention and management of COVID-19 in cancer patient and role of vitamins, mineral supplements and microbiota in era of COVID-19. In this review, implementing appropriate nutritional care with vitamins or mineral supplementation & their effect on outcome remain largely unknown. COVID co-infection with cancer whether under chemotherapy or not have worse outcome especially in male adults. Findings may help in creating recommendations on nutritional protocol of management & prevention of complications during ongoing COVID-19 pandemic for all cancer patients.

Probiotics/ prebiotics in viral respiratory infections: implication for emerging pathogens

BACKGROUND

Viral respiratory infections could result in perturbation of the gut microbiota due to a probable cross-talk between lungs and gut microbiota. This can affect the pulmonary health and the gastrointestinal system.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to discuss the impact of probiotics/ prebiotics and supplements on the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections, especially emerging pathogens.

METHODS

The data were searched were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Google Patents, and The Lens-Patent using keywords of probiotics and viral respiratory infections in the title, abstract, and keywords.

RESULT

Probiotics consumption could decrease the susceptibility to viral respiratory infections, such as COVID-19 and simultaneously enhance vaccine efficiency in infectious disease prevention through the immune system enhancement. Probiotics improve the gut microbiota and the immune system via regulating the innate system response and production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, treatment with probiotics contributes to the intestinal homeostasis restitution under antibiotic pressure and decreasing the risk of secondary infections due to viral respiratory infections. Probiotics present varied performances in different conditions; thus, promoting their efficacy through combining with supplements (prebiotics, postbiotics, nutraceuticals, berberine, curcumin, lactoferrin, minerals, and vitamins) is important. Several supplements reported to enhance the probiotics' efficacy and their mechanisms as well as probiotics related patents are summarized in this review. Using nanotechnology and microencapsulation techniques can also improve probiotics efficiency.

CONCLUSION

Given the global challenge of COVID-19, probiotic/prebiotic and following nutritional guidelines should be regarded seriously. Additionally, their role as an adjuvant in vaccination for immune response augmentation needs attention.

Focus on the Gut-Kidney Axis in Health and Disease

The recent new developments in technology with culture-independent techniques including genome sequencing methodologies shed light on the identification of microbiota bacterial species and their role in health and disease. Microbiome is actually reported as an important predictive tool for evaluating characteristic shifts in case of disease. Our present review states the development of different renal diseases and pathologies linked to the intestinal dysbiosis, which impacts on host homeostasis. The gastrointestinal–kidney dialogue provides intriguing features in the pathogenesis of several renal diseases. Without any doubt, investigation of this interconnection consists one of the most cutting-edge areas of research with potential implications on our health.

Not All Fibers Are Born Equal; Variable Response to Dietary Fiber Subtypes in IBD

Diet provides a safe and attractive alternative to available treatment options in a variety of diseases; however, research has only just begun to elucidate the role of diet in chronic diseases, such as the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The chronic and highly debilitating IBDs, Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, are hallmarked by intestinal inflammation, immune dysregulation, and dysbiosis; and evidence supports a role for genetics, microbiota, and the environment, including diet, in disease pathogenesis. This is true especially in children with IBD, where diet-based treatments have shown excellent results. One interesting group of dietary factors that readily links microbiota to gut health is dietary fibers. Fibers are not digested by human cells, but rather fermented by the gut microbes within the bowel. Evidence has been mounting over the last decade in support of the importance of dietary fibers in the maintenance of gut health and in IBD; however, more recent studies highlight the complexity of this interaction and importance of understanding the role of each individual dietary fiber subtype, especially during disease. There are roughly ten subtypes of dietary fibers described to date, categorized as soluble or insoluble, with varying chemical structures, and large differences in their fermentation profiles. Many studies to date have described the benefits of the byproducts of fermentation in healthy individuals and the potential health benefits in select disease models. However, there remains a void in our understanding of how each of these individual fibers affect human health in dysbiotic settings where appropriate fermentation may not be achieved. This review highlights the possibilities for better defining the role of individual dietary fibers for use in regulating inflammation in IBD.

The relevance of nutrition as a step forward to combat COVID-19

A new type of single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the coronavirus’s family named SARS-CoV-2 has recently appeared, with fast-growing human to human transmissions. This virus has posed an important global health threat. Many nutrients can support the immune system and help in preventing or in ameliorating the response to viral infections. In the case of COVID-19, the unique pathophysiology of the coronavirus needs to be understood, in order to determine whether any potential nutrition intervention is indicated. A literature survey that comprised of ongoing research was conducted to evaluate the benefits of the bioactives present in food, such as: plant-derived extracts, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and prebiotics, against the mechanisms of the COVID-19 infection. Although no food is yet confirmed to help in the prevention or in the treatment of the coronavirus transmission alone, exploring the possible implications of nutrition-infection interrelationships is of utmost importance. Well-designed and controlled clinical studies are emerging to explain whether the higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, unsaturated fatty acids, and other natural functional foods may aid in combating the COVID-19 infection. Meanwhile, a healthy and balanced diet is traditionally practised in viral infections that support the healthy gut microbiota profile. The human immune system function should be a vital prophylactic measure, along with adequate physical activities and sleeping habits. The consumption of immune-supportive nutrients is also encouraged in the elderly, comorbid, and in the immune-compromised as well as in malnourished individuals, in order to minimise the complications and the negative outcomes that are associated with the COVID-19 disease. Keywords: COVID-19 nutrition, mаcronutrients, micronutrients, bioactive compounds, malnutrition

Gut Microbiota Status in COVID-19: An Unrecognized Player?

Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes cardiopulmonary and vascular complications, ranging in severity. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of the novel SARS-CoV2 infection and progression can provide potential novel targets for its prevention and/or treatment. Virus microbiota reciprocal interactions have been studied in a variety of viral infections. For example, the integrity of Coronavirus particles can be disrupted by surfactin, a bacterial surface molecule that targets other viruses, including that of influenza A. In this light, intestinal microbiota likely influences COVID-19 virulence, while from its side SARS-CoV-2 may affect the intestinal microbiome promoting dysbiosis and other deleterious consequences. Hence, the microbiota pre-existing health status and its alterations in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection, are likely to play an important, still underscored role in determining individual susceptibility and resilience to COVID-19. Indeed, the vast majority of COVID-19 worst clinical conditions and fatalities develop in subjects with specific risk factors such as aging and the presence of one or more comorbidities, which are intriguingly characterized also by unhealthy microbiome status. Moreover, these comorbidities require complex pharmacological regimens known as "polypharmacy" that may further affect microbiota integrity and worsen the resilience to viral infections. This complex situation may represent a further and underestimated risk with regard to COVID-19 clinical burden for the elderly and comorbid people. Here, we discuss the possible biological, physiopathological, and clinical implications of gut microbiota in COVID-19 and the strategies to improve/maintain its healthy status as a simple and adjunctive strategy to reduce COVID-19 virulence and socio-sanitary burden.

Gut microbiota and Covid-19- possible link and implications

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Covid-19 disease show gastrointestinal symptoms in some patients hinting at a role of gut-lung axis.

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Gut microbiota diversity and its role in immunity highlighted.

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Possible role of gut microbiota in Covid-19 discussed.

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Implications of gut dysbiosis in Covid-19 analysed.

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Role of diet in strengthening the gut microbiota and in the context of Covid-19 discussed.

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Suggestions on therapy and prophylaxis based on gut microbiota in Covid-19.

Covid-19 is a major pandemic facing the world today caused by SARS-CoV-2 which has implications on our understanding of infectious diseases. Although, SARS-Cov-2 primarily causes lung infection through binding of ACE2 receptors present on the alveolar epithelial cells, yet it was recently reported that SARS-CoV-2 RNA was found in the faeces of infected patients. Interestingly, the intestinal epithelial cells particularly the enterocytes of the small intestine also express ACE2 receptors. Role of the gut microbiota in influencing lung diseases has been well articulated. It is also known that respiratory virus infection causes perturbations in the gut microbiota. Diet, environmental factors and genetics play an important role in shaping gut microbiota which can influence immunity. Gut microbiota diversity is decreased in old age and Covid-19 has been mainly fatal in elderly patients which again points to the role the gut microbiota may play in this disease. Improving gut microbiota profile by personalized nutrition and supplementation known to improve immunity can be one of the prophylactic ways by which the impact of this disease can be minimized in old people and immune-compromised patients. More trials may be initiated to see the effect of co-supplementation of personalized functional food including prebiotics/probiotics along with current therapies.

Dietary Habits of 2- to 9-Year-Old American Children Are Associated with Gut Microbiome Composition

BACKGROUND

The human gut microbiome is recognized as an important determinant of human health, yet little is known about how dietary habits are related to the microbiome in post-weaned, pre-pubescent children.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this work was to link quantitative dietary intake with microbiome features in a diverse population of children consuming a predominantly Western diet.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTINGS

English- or Spanish-speaking families with healthy children between the ages of 2 and 9 years were recruited from a community-based, early childhood learning center in suburban Los Angeles, California between June and September 2014.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Children included in the analyses (n=75) contributed three fecal samples and three quantitative 24-hour dietary recalls using the multiple-pass method with an average of 5.7 days between samples. Microbial communities of each fecal sample were characterized using Illumina sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Dietary recalls were analyzed using the Automated Self-Administered 24-Hour Recall Dietary Assessment Tool.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS PERFORMED

Associations between dietary factors and microbiome features were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman rank correlations, or permutational multivariate analysis of variance. For demographic and health-related variables, χ2 analyses were used to test for differences between age groups for categorical variables.

RESULTS

Our results show that age is correlated with three metrics of microbiome diversity (P<0.05) and is associated with both community structure (P=0.0488) and membership (P=0.0002). Several dietary food groups and nutrients were likewise associated with microbiome features. For example, consumption of non-whole-grain foods was associated with community structure (P=0.0089) and membership (P=0.0057), but not diversity (P>0.05). Likewise, the relative abundance of several bacterial taxa were linked to consumption of particular food groups and/or nutrients, as illustrated by the positive associations between total fruit (Pfalsediscovery rate<0.05) and fiber (Pfalsediscovery rate<0.05) consumption with the relative abundance of the Lachnospira genera.

CONCLUSIONS

This hypothesis-generating study demonstrates that the composition of the child gut microbiome remains dynamic beyond the age of 3 years and responds to dietary differences across individuals. In particular, non-whole-grain foods fortified with vitamins and minerals appear to be associated with the composition of the microbiome. Future interventional or model organism-based studies will be needed to test these associations between diet and microbiome composition.

Nutrition, the digestive system and immunity in COVID-19 infection

The current review aimed to synthesize the literature on the complex relationship between food consumption and nutritional status as well as the digestive system in order to examine the relationship between immunity and potential responses to COVID-19 infection. The goal is to help inform the many healthcare professionals working with COVID-19 patients. A literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. Hand searches were also undertaken using Google and reference lists to identify recent evidence. Studies were critically appraised, and the findings were analyzed by narrative synthesis. Nutritional status can impact immunity in several ways, including affecting susceptibility to infection, severity of disease, and recovery time, and is therefore a significant consideration in the management of COVID-19. COVID-19 can also impact digestive function, which can further impact nutritional status. The role of Vitamin D deficiency in vulnerability to severe respiratory infections, including COVID-19, has been recognized, and it may have a role in treatment where deficiency is indicated. Healthcare professionals should be aware that obesity may be accompanied by micronutrient malnutrition including vitamin D deficiency and alterations in the microbiome and inflammatory responses, which can further impact immunity and disease severity. Multidisciplinary team-work is recommended in the management of patients with COVID-19, and approaches should include a consideration of nutritional status (both macronutrients and micronutrients), body weight, and gastrointestinal signs and symptom.

Role of Personalized Nutrition in Chronic-Degenerative Diseases

Human nutrition is a branch of medicine based on foods biochemical interactions with the human body. The phenotypic transition from health to disease status can be attributed to changes in genes and/or protein expression. For this reason, a new discipline has been developed called “-omic science”. In this review, we analyzed the role of “-omics sciences” (nutrigenetics, nutrigenomics, proteomics and metabolomics) in the health status and as possible therapeutic tool in chronic degenerative diseases. In particular, we focused on the role of nutrigenetics and the relationship between eating habits, changes in the DNA sequence and the onset of nutrition-related diseases. Moreover, we examined nutrigenomics and the effect of nutrients on gene expression. We perused the role of proteomics and metabolomics in personalized nutrition. In this scenario, we analyzed also how dysbiosis of gut microbiota can influence the onset and progression of chronic degenerative diseases. Moreover, nutrients influencing and regulating gene activity, both directly and indirectly, paves the way for personalized nutrition that plays a key role in the prevention and treatment of chronic degenerative diseases.

Diet-Gut Microbiota Interactions and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

Medical nutritional therapy is the first-line approach in managing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Diet is also a powerful modulator of the gut microbiota, whose impact on insulin resistance and the inflammatory response in the host are well known. Changes in the gut microbiota composition have been described in pregnancies either before the onset of GDM or after its diagnosis. The possible modulation of the gut microbiota by dietary interventions in pregnancy is a topic of emerging interest, in consideration of the potential effects on maternal and consequently neonatal health. To date, very few data from observational studies are available about the associations between diet and the gut microbiota in pregnancy complicated by GDM. In this review, we analyzed the available data and discussed the current knowledge about diet manipulation in order to shape the gut microbiota in pregnancy.

The relationship between lifestyle factors and clinical symptoms of bipolar disorder patients in a Chinese population

There is evidence that bipolar disorder (BD) patients with an unhealthy lifestyle have a worse course of illness. This study was designed to examine the extent to which lifestyle could influence the severity of clinical symptoms associated with BD. A total of 113 BD patients were recruited in this study. The lifestyle information including data on dietary patterns, physical activity, and sleep quality were collected using a self-rated questionnaire. The results showed that the consumption of whole grain, seafood, and dairy products were significantly negatively correlated with the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17) total score. The consumption of sugar, soft drinks, and alcohol as well as being a current smoker were positively correlated with the severity of clinical symptoms. Multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression analyses demonstrated an independent negative correlation between both whole grain and dairy product consumption with the HAMD-17 score. The results from the current study suggested that lifestyle factors, especially dietary patterns, might be associated with clinical symptoms of BD. The association between the consumption of specific foods and severity of depressive symptoms may offer some useful information and further understanding of the role of lifestyle factors in the development of BD.

Butyrate: A Double-Edged Sword for Health?

Butyrate, a four-carbon short-chain fatty acid, is produced through microbial fermentation of dietary fibers in the lower intestinal tract. Endogenous butyrate production, delivery, and absorption by colonocytes have been well documented. Butyrate exerts its functions by acting as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor or signaling through several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Recently, butyrate has received particular attention for its beneficial effects on intestinal homeostasis and energy metabolism. With anti-inflammatory properties, butyrate enhances intestinal barrier function and mucosal immunity. However, the role of butyrate in obesity remains controversial. Growing evidence has highlighted the impact of butyrate on the gut-brain axis. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge on the properties of butyrate, especially its potential effects and mechanisms involved in intestinal health and obesity.

Roseburia spp.: a marker of health?

The genus Roseburia consists of obligate Gram-positive anaerobic bacteria that are slightly curved, rod-shaped and motile by means of multiple subterminal flagella. It includes five species: Roseburia intestinalis, R. hominis, R. inulinivorans, R. faecis and R. cecicola. Gut Roseburia spp. metabolize dietary components that stimulate their proliferation and metabolic activities. They are part of commensal bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids, especially butyrate, affecting colonic motility, immunity maintenance and anti-inflammatory properties. Modification in Roseburia spp. representation may affect various metabolic pathways and is associated with several diseases (including irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, nervous system conditions and allergies). Roseburia spp. could also serve as biomarkers for symptomatic pathologies (e.g., gallstone formation) or as probiotics for restoration of beneficial flora.

Influence of diet on the gut microbiome and implications for human health

Recent studies have suggested that the intestinal microbiome plays an important role in modulating risk of several chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. At the same time, it is now understood that diet plays a significant role in shaping the microbiome, with experiments showing that dietary alterations can induce large, temporary microbial shifts within 24 h. Given this association, there may be significant therapeutic utility in altering microbial composition through diet. This review systematically evaluates current data regarding the effects of several common dietary components on intestinal microbiota. We show that consumption of particular types of food produces predictable shifts in existing host bacterial genera. Furthermore, the identity of these bacteria affects host immune and metabolic parameters, with broad implications for human health. Familiarity with these associations will be of tremendous use to the practitioner as well as the patient.