How Gut Blastocystis Enhances the Benefits of a Healthy Diet

Common gut microbe called Blastocystis might play a surprising role in how our diet impacts our health, a new study suggests. The research, led by a team from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), found that individuals with higher levels of Blastocystis in their gut tended to have better markers of cardiovascular health and lower body fat ().

Gut Microbiome: Clue to Detecting Alzheimer's Before Symptoms Arise
New research suggests that the gut microbiome could hold clues to early detection of Alzheimer's disease, opening doors to non-invasive diagnostic methods.

‘Did You Know?
People with higher levels of Blastocystis had better markers of cardiovascular health and lower body fat, even after accounting for diet. #medindia #guthealth #blastocystis’

Blastocystis: Friend or Foe?

Blastocystis is a single-celled organism found in the digestive system of many people. It has been a subject of debate in the scientific community, with some considering it a parasite and others believing it to be harmless. This new study suggests Blastocystis may actually have some health benefits.

The researchers examined data from over 57,000 people across 32 countries. They analyzed the presence of Blastocystis in the gut and investigated how it might influence the effects of different foods on individuals' cardiometabolic health, including factors like obesity , diabetes, and heart disease.

How Protein-Rich Diets Shape Your Gut Microbiome
New research reveals how undigested protein in the colon influences gut microbiota, leading to beneficial or harmful metabolites.

Blastocystis Linked to Healthier Diets and Favorable Health Markers

The study revealed that Blastocystis levels were associated with consuming more plant-based and minimally processed foods, which are generally considered to be part of a healthy diet. Interestingly, Blastocystis was rarely found in newborns, suggesting it's acquired later in life. The researchers even found evidence of Blastocystis in stool samples dating back to 595 AD, indicating it's not necessarily a sign of a modern lifestyle.

The study also showed that people with higher levels of Blastocystis had more favorable blood sugar and cholesterol profiles, suggesting a potential positive impact on heart health beyond the effects of diet alone. Conversely, lower Blastocystis levels were linked to an increased risk of obesity.

Another interesting finding was that adults who participated in a separate six-month dietary intervention study showed an increase in Blastocystis prevalence and abundance after improving their diet quality.

Can Food Preservatives Harm Gut Microbiome?
Discover the unforeseen effects of common food preservatives on the gut microbiome. Learn more about its detrimental effects on gut health.

Blastocystis: A Potential Key to Personalized Nutrition?

These findings suggest that Blastocystis might play a role in how our bodies respond to diet and how well we digest our food. The presence and level of Blastocystis in the gut could potentially explain why some people benefit more from healthy eating than others.

The researchers emphasize the need for further studies to determine if manipulating Blastocystis levels could be a viable strategy for preventing diseases. This aligns with the growing field of research on how modifying gut bacteria can improve health.

Reference:

Role of the gut microbiota in nutrition and health - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6000740/)

Source-Medindia

Is Obesity Caused by Alterations in Gut Microbiome?
Alterations in the gut microbiome could lead to obesity. This can be caused by disruption of the biological clock, recurrent weight gain or enhanced susceptibility to infections. Better understanding of the link between the gut microbiome and ...