In a new study, researchers examined prebiotic foods that could be used as aids in intestinal health. Fiber can usually be obtained through theirEffects on the intestinal microbiomecontribute to the prevention of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Experiments conducted on mice and humans suggest that fortifying snacks with prebiotics alters the gut microbiota. This may accordingly lead to widespread physiological effects.
Potential treatment of obesity through prebiotic foods
It would be possible to obtain the fiber for future prebiotics from food industry waste such as peels and rinds, according to the study authors. Food manufacturers would otherwise throw them away. The idea of adding fiber to otherwise unhealthy snacks like cookies and chips may seem simple. However, the connection between diet, gut microbiome and individual health is highly complex. So in their research, the team tested how snacks that they supplemented with some fiber affected the gut microbiota. They discovered that each snack resulted in an increased amount of genes necessary to make enzymes to digest those particular fibers. This was probably because the fiber gave bacteria with the right genes a competitive advantage over the others. These genetic changes were closely correlated with changes in blood protein levels, which contribute to a variety of important physiological processes.
For example, there were significant changes in protein levels involved in glucose metabolism, immunity, blood clotting, blood vessel function, and bone and nerve cell biology. Overall, the experiments showed how well the intestinal microbiota responds to changes in fiber. This was observed even in people accustomed to a low-fiber diet. However, researchers are already investigating whether their preliminary findings hold up if people can eat whatever they want.This studyidentified protein biomarkers of possible physiological changes in the participants' blood. However, it is currently unknown whether such changes would reflect real health benefits. Only future clinical studies would show whether such snacks can help prevent type 2 diabetes or obesity, for example.
