Study shows that Diet has a bigger say on gut microbes than the intestinal defense molecules

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Study shows that Diet has a bigger say on gut microbes than the intestinal defense molecules

Study shows that Diet has a bigger say on gut microbes than the intestinal defense molecules. According to Fabiola Puértolas Balint, a PhD student at Umeå University. Although diet plays a significant role in shaping the composition of gut bacteria. Defensins also play a crucial role in safeguarding our bodies against infections caused by harmful microbes. While diet has a more substantial impact on the types of bacteria present in our gut. Defensins remain essential for protecting us from such infections. Furthermore, research suggests that defensins may also aid in preventing health issues that can arise from the consumption of a Western-style diet high in fat and sugar.

The gut microbiota is a complex community of numerous microorganisms that inhabit the digestive system of every individual. Over the past few decades, researchers have conducted extensive studies on the abundance of specific bacteria within this community. As they are closely associated with various diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, diabetes, and even psychological disorders. The establishment of the gut microbiota begins at birth and its composition is influenced by a multitude of internal and external factors, including diet (particularly fiber intake), genetic factors, medication usage, physical activity, and the presence of defense molecules known as antimicrobial peptides.

Antimicrobial peptides

Antimicrobial peptides, which function similarly to antibiotics, are naturally present molecules within the body. Among these peptides, the largest group is known as defensins, and they are produced by various surfaces of the body. Including the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. Defensins serve as the initial defense against infections and are also believed to contribute to shaping the composition of the microbiota in the small intestine. However, the extent of their influence compared to diet. Which is known to have a significant impact on the microbiota, had remained uncertain until recently.

Björn Schröder remarked, "To our surprise, we observed that the absence of functional defensins combined with a Western-style diet resulted in elevated fasting blood glucose levels. This finding suggests that defensins may play a role in safeguarding against metabolic disorders in the context of an unhealthy diet."

According to the study, it is suggested that efforts to enhance the composition of the microbiota should prioritize dietary interventions rather than solely focusing on increasing the production of host defense molecules like defensins. Considering their relatively minor impact on the overall composition. However, it is noted that during early life stages when the microbiota community is still developing. Defensins may exert a more significant influence on microbial composition.