For several years, researchers have worked with the idea that diet does not influence all people equally.
An important explanation lies in the gut microbiome, that is, the bacteria that live in the digestive system.
According to researchers, these bacteria can play a role in inflammation, blood sugar levels, and the body’s response to fat and sugar.
This approach forms the basis of a new study published in the scientific journal Frontiers.
Also read: Medical experts explain realistic weight loss timelines
A berry in the spotlight
The study focuses on aronia berries. The berries originate from North America and are rich in polyphenols, which are natural plant compounds.
Previous research has linked these compounds to antioxidant properties.
The research team, led by Stephanie M. G. Wilson of Montana State University, examined the effects of aronia juice in mouse experiments.
The mice had received transplants of gut bacteria from humans with varying levels of inflammation.
Also read: New blood test method shows promise for Alzheimer’s research
According to the researchers, aronia led to changes in certain bacteria, including Eggerthellaceae, which are capable of breaking down polyphenols.
Resilience
Mice with gut bacteria associated with low inflammation coped better with a high-fat diet, and aronia appeared to further strengthen this resilience.
At the same time, the researchers emphasize that the results are based on animal experiments.
They therefore cannot be directly applied to humans, but they do provide insight into how diet and gut bacteria may interact.
Also read: AI concluded that X-rays of knees could reveal whether you drank beer
What does it mean?
In other studies, aronia has also been linked to the regulation of blood sugar and heart function.
According to Earth.com, the results suggest that the berries’ effects depend on an individual’s gut flora.
The study contributes to a broader understanding of personalized nutrition, but also shows that more knowledge is still needed before clear recommendations can be made.
Sources: Earth.com, and Frontiers.
Also read: A safer method for weight loss examined in a new study
Also read: What Donald Trump’s daily eating habits look like