Scientists have found that the absence of sufficient fiber in the diet forces the gut microflora to switch to other food sources. Under such conditions, bacteria may begin to destroy the protective mucosal lining and produce potentially harmful compounds.
The Role of Plant Proteins
According to research results, fiber is not the only factor affecting microbiome health. It was found that certain undigested plant proteins play an important role. They help redirect microorganism activity toward the production of beneficial substances rather than harmful ones.
A plant-based diet is traditionally associated with improved digestive, immune, and cardiovascular systems, as well as metabolism. This occurs by maintaining a diversity of microorganisms in the gut that help break down food components that humans cannot digest on their own.
Context
These conclusions were drawn during two studies conducted by Jenna AbuSalim and Joshua Rabinowitz, who serves as the director of the Princeton branch of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research.
