Impact of nutrients on gut microbiota

Abstract

The influence of nutrition on the gut microbiome formation is undeniable. From the moment a childr is born, the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding, the timing of introduction and choice of complementary foods shape his or her microbiome. Subsequently, acute and chronic diseases, drug exposure, and physical activity maintain the “health” of the luminal microbiome. Nutritional adequacy and balance in accordance with age standards, as well as eating habits are important for the formation of the gut microbiome. Various foods with prebiotic properties contribute to the microbiome biodiversity. This review describes the effects of foods, nutrients, and prebiotics on the microbiome of children, athletes, and the elderly. The system’s fluidity leads to metabolic changes that affect the whole body. The time span of this impact matters: it either changes the developmental vector with early influence or corrects the constants already in place. At the same time, the directions of microbiome modifications are diverse: from improving athletic performance to preventing sarcopenia and cachexia in older people. Key words: microbiota, prebiotics, children, athletes, sarcopenia