A study published in Nature (2014) shows that short-term dietary changes rapidly and reproducibly alter the human gut microbiome. The research compared two diets: a plant-based diet rich in grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, and an animal-based diet consisting of meats, eggs, and cheeses. The animal-based diet increased the abundance of bile-tolerant bacteria (Alistipes, Bilophila, Bacteroides) and decreased Firmicutes that metabolize plant polysaccharides. The plant-based diet increased fiber intake and reduced fat and protein. The study found that the gut microbiome can rapidly respond to dietary changes, with microbial community structure and gene expression shifting within days. The animal-based diet was associated with increased bile acid levels, which may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. The study also identified foodborne microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that colonized the gut. RNA sequencing revealed changes in microbial gene expression, including increased vitamin biosynthesis and degradation of carcinogenic compounds. The findings suggest that the gut microbiome can adapt to dietary changes, potentially influencing human health and disease. The study highlights the importance of understanding the links between diet, microbial dynamics, and metabolic activity in the human gut.A study published in Nature (2014) shows that short-term dietary changes rapidly and reproducibly alter the human gut microbiome. The research compared two diets: a plant-based diet rich in grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, and an animal-based diet consisting of meats, eggs, and cheeses. The animal-based diet increased the abundance of bile-tolerant bacteria (Alistipes, Bilophila, Bacteroides) and decreased Firmicutes that metabolize plant polysaccharides. The plant-based diet increased fiber intake and reduced fat and protein. The study found that the gut microbiome can rapidly respond to dietary changes, with microbial community structure and gene expression shifting within days. The animal-based diet was associated with increased bile acid levels, which may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. The study also identified foodborne microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that colonized the gut. RNA sequencing revealed changes in microbial gene expression, including increased vitamin biosynthesis and degradation of carcinogenic compounds. The findings suggest that the gut microbiome can adapt to dietary changes, potentially influencing human health and disease. The study highlights the importance of understanding the links between diet, microbial dynamics, and metabolic activity in the human gut.