No one-size-fits-all gut: New study has an important message for Indians

A recent study challenges the notion of a "one-size-fits-all" gut microbiome, particularly for South Asians. Researchers analyzed stool samples and lifestyle, dietary, and health information from 575 healthy adults across 10 South Asian communities in India and Sri Lanka. The findings reveal that differing communities can have distinct microbiome patterns influenced by factors such as diet, culture, geography, and lifestyle.

This raises questions about the applicability of nutrition and gut-health recommendations primarily derived from Western populations to South Asians.

Dr Nishant Kurian, a Consultant at PSRI Hospital, emphasizes the importance of considering regional differences when assessing gut health. He suggests that the diverse Indian diet, culture, and environment impact South Asian gut microbiomes, making it crucial to develop regional-specific approaches rather than relying solely on Western advice.

Instead of adopting dietary recommendations developed for Western populations, Indians may benefit from focusing on diverse, minimally processed foods rich in fiber and traditional dietary patterns.

Urbanization, Kurian points out, can disrupt gut health by increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and decreasing fiber intake, physical activity, regular meal times, and sleep patterns. The research indicates that urbanization is linked to shifts in microbial communities, including lower diversity and higher levels of disease-associated bacteria.

The findings suggest potential implications for the management of metabolic diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, which are prevalent in South Asia. Dr Kurian notes that the research could lead to more targeted strategies for these conditions, tailored to South Asians instead of relying primarily on Western microbiome data.

However, personalized nutrition based on microbiome testing is still in its early stages, and larger, long-term studies are needed before it can be routinely used to guide individual treatment plans.