A healthy human gut microbiome contains low levels of a group of bacteria called Enterobacteriaceae. Which includes Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, E.coli and others.
However, factors such as increased inflammation in the body or eating contaminated food can cause illness. In extreme cases, too many enterobacteria in the intestine can be life-threatening.
Researchers used computational approaches, including AI, to collect stool samples from more than 12,000 people in 45 countries to analyze the composition of their gut microbiome. Scientists have discovered that the “signature” of a person’s microbiome can predict whether their intestines are likely to be colonized by enterobacteria.
Researchers identified 135 species of gut microbes that are normally found in the absence of Enterobacteriaceae. This probably protects against infection. A group of bacteria called Faecalibacterium breaks down the fiber in the foods we eat to create beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids that are part of the gut’s protective species.
Researchers say that including more fiber-rich foods in your diet can encourage the growth of good bacteria and eliminate bad bacteria, which can help reduce the risk of disease. It is potentially very important in controlling the possibility of infection by many types of bacteria, including E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
This changes the environment of our gut, making it more hostile to invaders. By consuming fiber in foods like vegetables, beans, and whole grains, we can provide our gut bacteria with the raw materials needed to make short-chain fatty acids.
Published on: January 14, 2025 at 5:54 PM (IST)