Western diets pose a greater risk of cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, research shows

Western diets pose a greater risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer, according to a landmark study into what people eat around the world.

The study of six common diets examined how what we consume affects our gut microbiome – the community of microorganisms that live in our intestines – and how the changing balance of its composition affects our overall health. The assessment was carried out by APC Microbiome Ireland (APC), an SFI research center based at University College Cork (UCC) and Teagasc.

The review reads published in Nature Reviews Microbiology and titled “The Interplay between Diet and the Gut Microbiome: Implications for Health and Disease.”

The study, led by Prof Catherine Stanton, an APC PI and senior chief research officer at Teagasc, examined Mediterranean, high fibre, plant-based, high protein, ketogenic and Western diets.

The comprehensive review shows how different diets significantly alter the composition and functionality of the gut microbiome, highlighting the production of essential molecules produced during metabolism, such as short-chain fatty acids.

It highlights the harmful effects of the Western diet, characterized by high fat and sugar intake, compared to the benefits of diets rich in plant-based and fiber-rich foods.

In contrast, it finds that a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, is effective in managing conditions such as cardiovascular disease, IBD and type 2 diabetes.

Prof. Stanton said: “Our research highlights the profound impact of different diets on the gut microbiome. This insight is crucial for developing nutritional recommendations that promote health and prevent disease. It’s fascinating to see how food choices can affect the balance of microorganisms in our intestines. intestines and their metabolic functions.”

The review provides valuable insights for the food industry and healthcare professionals, guiding them in making informed decisions about nutrition and health. The detailed analysis of how different diets affect the microbiome provides a basis for developing targeted nutritional therapies and improving public health outcomes.

Prof. Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland, and Co-Director of UCC Futures Microbiome and Health added: “This review is an important milestone in microbiome research. It provides a detailed insight into how dietary patterns shape the gut microbiome and underlines the potential for nutrition-based interventions in clinical practice. It provides tangible data on how the microbiome is intrinsically relevant to creating health benefits for society.

The review also emphasizes the need for exhaustive research to better understand the causal relationships between individuals, their diet and microorganisms. This insight is essential for advancing precision nutrition and developing microbiome-based therapies tailored to individual health needs.

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