Similar to our hunter-gatherer ancestors, we have an evolutionary preference for high-calorie foods. Our ancestors developed a genetic program to store as much energy and valuable nutrients as possible during periods when food was scarce. So, although we no longer experience food shortages as in the past, we have inherited genes that make it difficult for us to resist delicious foods, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even cancer.
However, in order for pathological phenotypes to occur, these genes must interact with environmental influences. The gut microbiome (GM) appears to play a critical role in regulating these paleogenes. The human gut hosts tens of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms collectively referred to as GM. GM was present in the guts of our human-like ancestors and co-evolved with them, eventually reaching modern homo sapiens. Until now, GM was believed to have a symbiotic relationship with humans, resulting in beneficial effects for both parties. However, it is important to remember that our relationship with the GM may not always be a permanent, mutual, symbiotic relationship. Sometimes this relationship can harm us.
Gut microbiota has dual effects on human cognition
Recent research has shown that GM can have both positive and negative effects on our mood, decision-making, and behavior. This is often referred to as the “gut-brain axis.” Various studies have shown that imbalances in the microbiota, known as dysbiosis, can lead to a variety of mental and cognitive changes, including anxiety, depression, and even autism. On the other hand, our mood also has an effect on the diversity of the microbiota. Despite methodological limitations in microbiota studies and the potential for overestimation of results, the impact of GM on cognitive processes, particularly decision-making and behavioral preferences, is important and requires further investigation. These new findings regarding the effects of GM, particularly on human will and desires, force us to reconsider our relationship with at least some types of gut microbes.
A new approach called “behavioral microbiomes” is being used to study how microbes influence behavior. This approach takes into account many factors beyond the presence of microorganisms. It covers the metabolic activity of microbes, interactions between various microbial species, as well as the genetics and environment of the host. Researchers argue that a multidimensional approach is required to fully understand the complex relationship between the microbiome and behavior. They suggest that this approach could have important implications for fields such as neuroscience, psychiatry, and microbiology. The microbiota influences a wide range of human behaviors, including exercise habits, addiction, sleep patterns, and even moral judgments. However, GM’s impact on our appetite and food preferences can have significant impacts on our health and contribute to the development of diseases.
GM’s impact on dietary preferences
Some research highlights suggest that the gut microbiome plays an important role in determining our eating behavior and dietary choices. Scientists discovered that mice with less diverse microbiomes tended to consume higher amounts of fat, while those with more diverse microbiomes tended to consume more sugar. Some studies have shown that gut microbes may contribute to obese individuals preferring unhealthy, high-calorie foods.
Widely accepted as a normal balance of the microbiota, a high ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes phyla has been associated with increased appetite and weight gain. These bacteria are believed to play an important role in breaking down complex carbohydrates and producing short-chain fatty acids. The study found that the composition of gut microbes differed between obese and lean individuals. When gut microbes from obese mice were transferred to lean mice, the lean mice began to prefer high-fat and high-sugar foods. The findings suggest that the gut microbiome may have a significant impact on food preferences and weight gain. Therefore, the individual’s microbiota type should be taken into account when designing a diet program for the management of eating disorders, obesity and metabolic diseases. [1].
Microbiome and personalized diet
Personalized nutrition is a new approach to diet and nutrition that takes into account the different characteristics of the individual, including their genes, lifestyle and nutritional preferences. It uses advanced technologies such as genetic testing, blood analysis and artificial intelligence to develop personalized nutrition plans suitable for individual needs. This approach aims to optimize health, prevent and manage chronic diseases, increase athletic performance and achieve specific fitness goals. Personalized nutrition may include recommendations for specific foods, meal timing, supplements, and lifestyle changes that are personalized to meet the individual’s unique needs. To date, the most important factor in personalized nutrition has been the individual’s genotype; However, the microbiome plays an important role in personalized nutrition because it can influence how the body processes and absorbs nutrients.
The composition of the microbiome can vary between individuals, which can influence how individuals respond to various types of foods and diets. For example, some individuals may have a microbiome that is more adept at metabolizing fiber-rich foods, while others may have a microbiome that is highly adept at digesting fats. By analyzing an individual’s microbiome, personalized nutrition plans can be developed that take into account a person’s unique needs and preferences. Additionally, interventions such as probiotics and prebiotics can be used to alter the microbiome and improve its function, potentially resulting in improved overall health and nutritional outcomes. [2].
Recent evidence suggests that genetic testing may enable personalized dietary recommendations based on an individual’s genetic makeup. Some genes may influence how the body metabolizes certain nutrients, allowing for personalized dietary recommendations. Moreover, analyzing an individual’s microbiome can provide valuable information about the digestion and absorption of food, leading to personalized recommendations for achieving optimal gut health. However, more research is needed in this area and caution should be taken not to oversimplify the relationship between genetics, microbiome, and nutrition.