Study Links Plant-Based Diets to Improved Gut Health and Reduced Disease Risks

Research on over 21,000 participants highlights how dietary patterns shape the gut microbiome and influence overall health.

A large-scale study published in Nature Microbiology analyzed the gut microbiomes of vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores across the US, UK, and Italy.
Vegan diets were associated with higher levels of beneficial gut bacteria that produce anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids, improving metabolic and immune health.
Omnivorous diets showed greater microbiome diversity but included bacteria linked to inflammation, heart disease, and certain cancers due to meat consumption.
The study emphasized that the quality and diversity of plant-based foods, especially those rich in fiber, are key to fostering a healthier gut microbiome, regardless of dietary pattern.
Researchers found that some gut bacteria may come directly from food, with vegans harboring microbes from fresh fruits and vegetables and omnivores from dairy and meat products.