Gut Microbiota News Watch is a section dedicated to expanding knowledge about gut microbiota’s importance for health and quality of life among the media and society in general. Using clear and easy-to-understand language, our aim is to keep our readers up-to-date on the latest facts and news about gut microbiota.

Gut microbiota plays a role in cholesterol metabolism by influencing bile acid production. Recent research has identified a microbial process that helps maintain metabolic balance and prevent fat accumulation. Understanding this interaction may provide insights into metabolic health and disease prevention.

Fiber and cancer prevention: what science says

26 Feb 2025

by Cristina Sáez

A new study reveals that consuming fiber-rich foods can play a crucial role in cancer prevention. The research shows that some products of fiber digestion by gut microbiota, such as butyrate and propionate, can alter gene expression and exert anti-tumor effects. These findings highlight the importance of including whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts in our daily diet to support long-term health.

The fundamental role of gut bacteria in overall health has been recognized for years. Imbalances in its composition have been linked to autoimmune, gastrointestinal, and metabolic diseases, and now also to cardiovascular conditions. Increasingly, scientists are studying the gut-heart axis and suggest that the gut microbiota could become a new therapeutic target for preventing and treating heart diseases.

We continue our series on the gut axis, this time focusing on the gut-skin connection. You might have noticed it yourself—how a heavy, sugary meal can lead to breakouts the next day, or how certain food allergies can trigger rashes. This is the gut-skin axis at work, demonstrating an association between the health of our gut and the condition of our skin, and vice versa.

The gut, its microbiota, and the liver communicate through complex interactions. This communication, known as the gut-liver axis, plays a crucial role in maintaining liver health and preventing disease. We will explore the role of gut microbiota in the gut-liver axis and delve into the emerging microbiota-based therapies that hold promise for liver diseases.

What’s in the sandwich you are eating?

16 Oct 2024

by Cristina Sáez

For the first time, a European group of researchers have analyzed the microbiome of more than 2,500 different types of foods. The insights gained will help better identify good and bad ‘bugs’ and improve the quality and safety of existing products. Additionally, the research sheds light on the influence of food microbiome on our own gut microbiome and overall health.

Scientists are starting to elucidate the roots of gastrointestinal symptoms that appear after a meal in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Current research highlights the immune drivers of gut pain, which could offer clues on how to treat IBS.

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