Low-Cost Precision Nutrition Recommendations, Generated by Metataxonomy-based Microbiome Tests, Improve Food Group Choices and Gut Health Indicators in a Population with Obesity Diagnosis in Colombia

AimsThis study aimed to explore the relationship between gut microbiota composition, obesity, and the effects of a dietary intervention in 50 participants with obesity diagnosis from Antioquia, Colombia. MethodsA single-blind intervention study was conducted, with 25 participants assigned to a control group (CG) and 25 to an intervention group (IG), these last followed a microbiota-enhancing dietary plan for 90 consecutive days. Gut microbiota changes were assessed by sequencing region V3-V4 of 16S rRNA gene and applying the analytical methodology of Biomatest(R) gut health index. Blood biomarkers, including HbA1C, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and glucose, were measured at baseline and post-intervention. ResultsPrevotella and Succinivibrio were prevalent in the study population. The IG showed significant increases in gut microbial diversity (Shannon index) from baseline to post-intervention. Both groups exhibited significant changes in the Biomatest gut health index, with significant improvements in the IG. Significant correlations were found between dietary intake, blood biomarkers, and microbial abundances, such as the direct association between serum glucose and ultra-processed food intake and between total cholesterol and Dialister. Fish and seafood consumption correlated positively with Akkermansia, while egg intake was associated with higher levels of Desulfovibrio, and Lactobacillus with decreased glycated hemoglobin. The IG experienced a significant rise in Roseburia, a gut health biomarker, while the CG showed higher levels in inflammatory groups like Fusobacteriota. ConclusionsDietary intake significantly influences gut microbiota composition and blood biomarkers. Nutritional programs that improve gut microbiota, as demonstrated by the IG, positively impact gut health in people with obesity diagnosis and may influence healthier dietary choices. These findings support integrating microbiota diagnostics into personalized nutrition strategies, contributing valuable data on Latin American populations. O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=195 HEIGHT=200 SRC="FIGDIR/small/25331845v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (48K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1652035org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@25a04borg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@3ed98corg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@3caedf_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG