Research Keyword: microbiome modulation

Nutritional strategies in supporting immune checkpoint inhibitor, PI3K inhibitor, and tyrosine kinase inhibitor cancer therapies

This review examines how nutrition and food-based interventions can improve cancer treatment outcomes for patients receiving targeted cancer therapies. A Mediterranean-style diet with plenty of fiber (30-50g daily) appears beneficial for patients on immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies by promoting healthy gut bacteria that support immune function. The review also discusses promising research on fermented foods, specific bacterial supplements, mushroom extracts, and fasting approaches as complementary strategies to enhance cancer treatment effectiveness while reducing side effects.

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Galacto-Oligosaccharides Exert Bifidogenic Effects at Capsule-Compatible Ultra-Low Doses

This study tested whether tiny doses of a prebiotic called galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) could be effective when taken in capsule form instead of large sachets. Researchers used a specially designed laboratory system to simulate how these compounds work in the human gut. Even at the lowest dose tested (0.5 g), the GOS successfully increased beneficial gut bacteria and produced helpful compounds that support digestive health, while producing minimal gas.

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Prebiotic and Functional Fibers from Micro- and Macroalgae: Gut Microbiota Modulation, Health Benefits, and Food Applications

Seaweed and other algae contain special fibers called polysaccharides that act like fertilizer for beneficial bacteria in your gut. When these good bacteria ferment these algal fibers, they produce substances called short-chain fatty acids that support digestive health, boost immunity, and help control blood sugar and weight. These algae-based fibers are sustainable alternatives to synthetic prebiotics and can be added to foods and supplements.

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Untargeted metabolomics as a tool to assess the impact of dietary approaches on pig gut health: a review

This review examines how different types of food and feed additives affect the chemical compounds in pig digestive systems. By analyzing thousands of tiny molecules in pig samples using advanced laboratory techniques, researchers can understand which dietary approaches help pigs maintain healthy guts and resist disease. The study shows that adjusting the levels of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in pig feed can influence beneficial bacteria and protective compounds in their intestines.

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Triacetin and a Mushroom Blend Restore Butyrate Production by IBS Microbiomes Ex Vivo, Thus Promoting Barrier Integrity

Researchers tested two natural products—triacetin and a mushroom blend—to see if they could help people with IBS by improving their gut bacteria and strengthening their intestinal lining. Both products successfully increased beneficial short-chain fatty acids and improved barrier integrity, with triacetin having the added advantage of producing less uncomfortable gas. These findings suggest these products could offer a new dietary approach to managing IBS symptoms.

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Sex-Specific Associations Between Prebiotic Supplement Intake and Sarcopenia Risk: Evidence From NHANES

This study examined whether taking prebiotic supplements helps prevent sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) differently in men versus women using health data from thousands of Americans. Researchers found that women who consumed prebiotics had significantly lower rates of sarcopenia, while this benefit was not observed in men. These findings suggest that prebiotic supplements may be particularly beneficial for women’s muscle health, though more research is needed to understand why this sex difference exists.

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Fungal β-Glucans Enhance Lactic Acid Bacteria Growth by Shortening Their Lag Phase and Increasing Growth Rate

Researchers tested whether extracts from common edible mushrooms like oyster and shiitake could help beneficial bacteria in the gut grow better. They found that these mushroom extracts, particularly their β-glucan components, helped probiotic bacteria start growing faster and grow more quickly. Importantly, the extracts did not help harmful bacteria grow, making them promising candidates for developing healthier food supplements that support gut health.

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In Vitro Prebiotic Potential of Opuntia humifusa Leaf Extract and Its Active Constituent

Researchers studied a traditional Korean plant called Opuntia humifusa to determine if it could act as a prebiotic—a food component that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They found that leaf extracts, particularly when prepared with 60% ethanol, effectively stimulated the growth of Lactobacillus bacteria. The active ingredient was identified as a compound called isorhamnetin glycoside, which could make this plant a natural ingredient for functional foods designed to support digestive and overall health.

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Human Gut Microbiome: A Connecting Organ Between Nutrition, Metabolism, and Health

Your gut bacteria function like an extra organ, helping digest food and producing important compounds that affect your whole body. The type of bacteria in your gut depends on diet, delivery method at birth, and antibiotics you’ve taken. Eating more fiber and taking certain probiotics can improve your bacterial balance and help prevent diseases like diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. This suggests that managing your gut microbiome through diet might be just as important as taking traditional medicines for staying healthy.

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