Fibre helps to protect against infections

Researchers from the University of Cambridge analysed the gut microbiome of 12,000 people across 45 countries using stool samples and found that an individual’s microbiome signature can predict if their gut bacteria is likely to be colonised by a group of bacteria called Enterobacteriaceae. Enterobacteriaceae bacteria at low levels can be part of a healthy microbiome but at high levels can increase inflammation, illness, disease and even life threatening conditions.

The researchers identified 135 gut microbe species that were commonly found in the absence of Enterobacteriaceae, protecting the microbiome called Faecalibacterium which produce beneficial compounds called short chain fatty acids by breaking down fibre in the food we eat, including vegetables, fruits, pulses ie beans and lentils and legumes. The researchers suggest eating more fibre not only supports the growth of beneficial bacteria but can also help to protect against the growth of bad bacteria by creating an environment that is hostile to it.

NOTE: The results are published in the journal Nature Microbiology