Reference Number: 329
Year: 2013
Link: Link to original paper
Health: Cancer | Gut Microbiome - Creating Healthier Bread to Support Optimal Gut Health
Nutrition: Polyphenols
Summary
The biological properties of dietary polyphenols are greatly dependent on their bioavailability that, in turn, is largely influenced by their degree of polymerization. The gut microbiota play a key role in modulating the production, bioavailability and, thus, the biological activities of phenolic metabolites, particularly after the intake of food containing high-molecular-weight polyphenols. In addition, evidence is emerging on the activity of dietary polyphenols on the modulation of the colonic microbial population composition or activity. However, although the great range of health-promoting activities of dietary polyphenols has been widely investigated, their effect on the modulation of the gut ecology and the two-way relationship “polyphenols ? microbiota” are still poorly understood.
Only a few studies have examined the impact of dietary polyphenols on the human gut microbiota, and most were focused on single polyphenol molecules and selected bacterial populations. This review focuses on the reciprocal interactions between the gut microbiota and polyphenols, the mechanisms of action and the consequences of these interactions on human health.
What does this mean for a Baker?
This is a very interesting study which helps us to understand the role that polyphenols play in maintaining our gut health. They have been found to have prebiotic-like effects, supporting the growth of ‘good’ bacteria and inhibiting the growth of ‘bad’ bacteria in our gut microbiomes. Why not try consuming more foods with a high polyphenol content, such as raspberries and blackberries, to help increase the health of your gut microbiome? Try making these Raspberry and White Chocolate Sourdough Muffins.
