The Impact of Diet and Physical Activity on the Human Gut Microbiota
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54097/2ytefg31Keywords:
Gut microbiota, diet; physical activity, lifestyle interventions, nutrient metabolism.Abstract
The human gut microbiota is a crucial regulator of nutrient metabolism, immune function, and even influences psychological status through gut-brain communication. Strategies targeting gut microbiota as adjunct approaches to aid in conventional pharmacotherapy, while supplements such as prebiotics and probiotics are gaining markets due to consumer’s growing awareness on the health benefits of desirable gut microbiota pattern. This paper summarizes the effects of leading lifestyle factors, dietary intake and physical activity, on the composition and function of human gut microbiota. It addresses the need for standardized research designs to improve cross-study comparability and consensus. Dietary patterns and nutrient sources have profound influences on gut microbiota composition through supporting substrate and introduction of new species. The mechanisms of physical activity impacting gut microbiota composition are not well-understood, while the synergistic effects with diet should be acknowledged. Personalized lifestyle interventions targeting the gut microbiota are recognized as a compelling strategy to address precision health. Since diet and physical activity are crucial modulators of the human gut microbiota, understanding their independent effects and interactions provide a foundation for developing microbiota-targeted lifestyle interventions and guiding personalized approaches to improve health outcomes.
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