Diet Shifts the Bacterial Mix in the Intestine and Influences Health

A study comparing (by examination of feces) a study group of rural, health African children and a study group of healthy Italian children revealed significant differences in microbial composition related to diet and to the health of the children. African children ate diets high in fiber and vegetables and low in fat, Italian children ate diets high in protein and fats and low in fiber and vegetables. African children's guts contained bacterial species that broke down fiber and created short chain fatty acids that protected the intestines against inflammation; by contrast, Italian children lacked this protection and suffered intestinal ailments. (ScienceNow [AAAS])