A new study has found that a healthy gut microbiome can help predict susceptibility to infections like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, suggesting that increasing fibre intake can provide protection.
A recent research study published in the journal Nature Microbiology analyzed the gut microbiome compositions of over 12,000 people across 45 countries. The results indicate that a person’s microbiome ‘signature’ can predict whether their gut is likely to be colonized by harmful bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae.
Researchers identified 135 gut microbe species commonly found in healthy individuals when absent from Enterobacteriaceae. These beneficial bacteria, including Faecalibacterium, produce short-chain fatty acids by breaking down fibre in the diet. This protective mechanism helps prevent infection by disease-causing bugs like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Alexandre Almeida, suggests that a diet rich in fibre can support the growth of beneficial bacteria, outcompeting harmful ones to reduce illness risk. Consuming foods high in fibre, such as vegetables, beans, and whole grains, provides essential raw materials for gut bacteria to produce protective compounds.
The researchers’ findings emphasize the importance of dietary choices in controlling infection susceptibility. By incorporating more fibre into their diet, individuals can enhance their gut microbiome’s ability to protect against infections like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/gut-microbiomes-role-in-fighting-infections-study-reveals-how-diet-can-impact-risk-101736679538951.html