Gut microbiota and human health: The role of nutrition in shaping a flourishing microbiome

• Author Details:   
• Juhi Aggarwal
• Luna Sinha
• Urvashi Midha ^*

The human gut microbiota is essential for preserving health because it affects immunological responses, brain function, metabolic activities, and pathogen defence. Recent developments in the study of the microbiome have brought attention to the dynamic interplay between microbial makeup and food, indicating that nutrition plays a significant role in regulating gut health. Examining how particular nutrients—such as dietary fibre, polyphenols, prebiotics, and fermented foods—promote microbial diversity and stability, this review delves into the complex interaction between dietary patterns and the gut microbiome. On the other hand, westernized diets that are low in fibre and heavy in saturated fats and refined sugars are linked to inflammation, dysbiosis, and an increased risk of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.

We summarize results from preclinical and clinical research to show how dietary changes might change the composition of the microbiome to be more advantageous. The review also takes into account the impact of tailored nutrition, dietary requirements particular to each stage of life, and new approaches like microbiome-directed foods and synbiotics. The gut-brain axis and the possibility of diets that target the microbiota in the management of mental health and neurodegenerative diseases are given particular attention.

This study emphasizes the significance of integrative dietary approaches in fostering long-term health by stressing the reciprocal and adjustable nature of the diet-microbiome connection. Gaining insight into how diet affects gut microbiota opens up exciting possibilities for tailored nutrition plans and preventative healthcare that aims to preserve and restore microbial equilibrium.