by Mónica Quinzo
The definition of a prebiotic has evolved from a focus on colonic fiber to a complex ecological strategy. This article traces the concept's 30-year journey, highlighting the shift from non-digestible carbohydrates to the latest expert recommendations.
by Karen Madsen
Previous clinical studies have shown a promising role of fecal microbiota transplantation to induce remission in ulcerative colitis and maintain steroid-induced Crohn’s disease remission. A new double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found fecal microbiota transplantation is not effective at inducing clinical or endoscopic remission in adults with Crohn’s disease.
This Halloween, we’re celebrating some microbes that sound scary but play a vital role in keeping us healthy. Behind their ghostly names lie fascinating stories of cooperation, balance, and invisible teamwork inside our gut.
by Andreu Prados
Many patients with IBS find that wheat or gluten triggers gastrointestinal symptoms, prompting them to exclude these foods from their diets. A new study highlights how patients’ expectations and beliefs shape symptom modulation and dietary choices in IBS.
Prebiotics have been widely researched in the context of gastrointestinal conditions and might hold potential to influence cognition outcomes by modulating the microbiota-gut-brain axis. A new randomised controlled trial in individuals aged over 60s showed that a prebiotic blend (inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides) is well tolerated and may improve cognition compared with a placebo.
After two decades of scientific exploration, the human microbiome has emerged as a critical determinant of health and disease. Fueled by multi-omics technologies and machine learning, the field has advanced from correlation-based observations to establishing causal relationships. This article presents recent and compelling examples of microbiome-based treatments that are ripe for clinical adoption and discusses challenges and opportunities facing the field based on expert interviews conducted by the GMFH team.
Emerging research suggests a complex interaction between the gut microbiome and endometriosis. Recent studies have begun to explore the impact of dietary interventions on endometriosis.
by GMFH Editing Team
Microbiome tests are becoming popular among the lay public and health professionals to diagnose and manage microbiome-related conditions. A new consensus involving scientists in basic and translational science updates the ins and outs of microbiome testing in clinical practice.
by Andreu Prados
Diet can impact the efficacy of prebiotics and probiotics. A new perspective article in Nature Microbiology makes 10 recommendations for designing, conducting, and reporting clinical trials of prebiotics and probiotics that support best practices in microbiome research.
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.
