Is there a difference in gut microbiome of prediabetic patients? Study sheds light

A recent study published in the journal Nutrients compares the composition of the gut microbiome in prediabetic patients and healthy individuals.

Prediabetes is defined as glycated hemoglobin levels between 5.7-6.5% and fasting blood glucose levels between 100-126 mg/dL which significantly increases the mortality risks and burden on the healthcare system.

The gut microbiome regulates lipid and glucose metabolism, but its dysbiosis leads to diseases. It's linked to increased gut permeability and systemic inflammation, contributing to metabolic syndrome and diseases like type 2 diabetes. Diet, drugs, and age alter gut microbiota. Few studies have examined gut bacteria in prediabetic patients and its impact on their health mechanisms.

The study compared gut microbial composition between prediabetic patients and healthy individuals. The impact of diet on the gut microbiome of prediabetic patients was also assessed to identify nutrition-based interventions that could potentially prevent the progression of prediabetes to diabetes. A total of 57 study participants were recruited from a Hospital in Taiwan. Gut microbiota data of 60 healthy individuals between 18 and 65 years were obtained from biobanks and used as the reference group. Participants were advised to keep a three-day food record and collect fecal samples on the third day. The nutrient composition of the participants’ diet was measured.