01 April 2024 | Alejandro Borrego-Ruiz, Juan J. Borrego
The article reviews the influence of different dietary patterns on the gut microbiome and their implications in various neuropsychiatric and psychological disorders. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host health, including immune system development, nutrient metabolism, and the synthesis of bioactive molecules. The study examines the effects of traditional diets (Western and Mediterranean) and emerging diets (vegetarian and ketogenic) on gut microbiota composition and function. The Western diet, characterized by high intake of refined sugars, saturated fats, and animal proteins, is associated with metabolic and pathological disorders and alters gut microbiota composition, leading to chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber, unsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants, promotes a healthier gut microbiota and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and obesity. Vegetarian diets, which are low in animal products and high in plant-based foods, have been linked to reduced body fat, lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, and improved cognitive function. The ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, induces ketosis and has shown potential therapeutic effects on conditions like autism, depression, and epilepsy. The article also discusses the gut-brain axis, where gut microbiota communicates with the brain through various metabolites and neuroactive compounds, influencing mental health. The review highlights the complex interactions between diet, gut microbiota, and mental disorders, emphasizing the need for further research to understand these relationships and develop personalized nutritional interventions for mental health.The article reviews the influence of different dietary patterns on the gut microbiome and their implications in various neuropsychiatric and psychological disorders. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host health, including immune system development, nutrient metabolism, and the synthesis of bioactive molecules. The study examines the effects of traditional diets (Western and Mediterranean) and emerging diets (vegetarian and ketogenic) on gut microbiota composition and function. The Western diet, characterized by high intake of refined sugars, saturated fats, and animal proteins, is associated with metabolic and pathological disorders and alters gut microbiota composition, leading to chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber, unsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants, promotes a healthier gut microbiota and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and obesity. Vegetarian diets, which are low in animal products and high in plant-based foods, have been linked to reduced body fat, lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, and improved cognitive function. The ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, induces ketosis and has shown potential therapeutic effects on conditions like autism, depression, and epilepsy. The article also discusses the gut-brain axis, where gut microbiota communicates with the brain through various metabolites and neuroactive compounds, influencing mental health. The review highlights the complex interactions between diet, gut microbiota, and mental disorders, emphasizing the need for further research to understand these relationships and develop personalized nutritional interventions for mental health.