The influence of a plant-based diet on the composition and functions of the human gut microbiota: a review

The human gut microbiota represents a highly diverse ecosystem, with its composition and functions influenced by dietary, biological, and environmental factors. This research aimed to analyze how diet significantly impacts microbial dynamics, particularly through the consumption of dietary fiber, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds. A comprehensive review of major scientific databases was conducted to identify and evaluate studies that explored the relationship between diet and gut microbiota, as well as the primary microbial genera and species linked to these dietary patterns. The primary bacterial phyla present in the human gut include Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Verrucomicrobiota. Among these phyla, notable genera include <i>Bacteroides, Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia</i>. These taxa are integral to several essential processes, such as the degradation of complex polysaccharides, the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids, the modulation of immune responses, and the preservation of the intestinal barrier. From a nutritional perspective, current evidence indicates that a plant-based diet may enhance microbial diversity, augment the production of beneficial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, and facilitate bacterial profiles that are associated with anti-inflammatory properties, metabolic regulation, and the maintenance of epithelial integrity. In conclusion, dietary patterns that are particularly rich in fiber, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds derived from plant sources have a profound impact on the composition and functions of the gut microbiota. A thorough understanding of these interactions is crucial for developing nutritional strategies that enhance both gut health and overall well-being.