Links Between Western Diet and The Human Gut Microbiome: A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: The human gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining health by influencing immune function and metabolic processes. Diet is a major factor in shaping microbiome composition and can be linked to a range of chronic diseases. This systematic review examines how the Western diet alters gut microbiome composition and its subsequent effects on inflammation, metabolism, and immune health.

Methods: This review synthesizes findings from thirteen studies examining the impact of the Western diet on gut microbiome composition and related health outcomes. The review analyzes these studies to identify key mechanisms linking diet to microbiome changes and immune function, while highlighting gaps in current research.

Results: The review found that the Western diet leads to significant alterations in gut microbiome composition, including reduced microbial diversity and an imbalance in inflammatory responses. These changes are linked to the development of metabolic and immune diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Diets such as the Mediterranean diet promote a more diverse and stable microbiome, with associated improvements in immune function and reduced disease risk.

Discussion: This review highlights the need for further research on how diet shapes gut microbiome composition and its impact on immune and metabolic health. The Western diet’s disruption of microbial diversity and its promotion of inflammation contribute significantly to the rise of chronic diseases. In contrast, diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, appear to support a healthier microbiome and reduce disease risk through their anti-inflammatory and microbiome-supporting properties. Gaps remain in understanding the causal mechanisms behind diet-microbiome interactions, and further research is needed to explore personalized dietary interventions for disease prevention and optimal gut health.

Conclusion: This review underscores the importance of diet in influencing gut microbiome composition and its role in immune and metabolic health. The findings suggest that dietary interventions may offer effective strategies to mitigate the negative effects of the Western diet on health. Future research should focus on understanding the causal mechanisms of diet-microbiome interactions and developing personalized nutrition approaches to improve gut health and prevent chronic diseases.