by Like our hunter-gatherer ancestors, we have an evolutionary preference for high-calorie foods. Our ancestors developed a genetic program to store as much energy and valuable nutrients as possible during periods when food was scarce. Therefore, we have inherited genes that make it difficult for us to resist delicious food, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even cancer, even though we no longer experience food shortages as we did in the past.
However, to manifest pathological phenotypes, these genes must interact with environmental influences. It appears that the gut microbiome (GM) plays a critical role in regulating these paleogenes. The human intestine is home to tens of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms collectively called transgenic microorganisms. The transgenic has been present in the intestines of our human ancestors and has evolved together with them, until finally reaching modern homo sapiens. Until now, GMOs have been believed to have a reciprocal symbiotic relationship with humans, resulting in beneficial effects for both parties. However, it is important to note that our relationship with GMOs may not always be permanent, reciprocal and symbiotic. Sometimes this relationship can be harmful to us.
The gut microbiota has a double effect on human cognition
Recent studies have shown that GMOs can have both positive and negative impacts on our mood, decision making, and behaviors. This is often called the “gut-brain axis.” Several studies have shown that imbalances in the microbiota, known as dysbiosis, can cause various mental and cognitive disorders, including anxiety, depression and even autism. On the other hand, our mood influences the diversity of the microbiota. Despite the methodological limitations of microbiota studies and the possibility of overestimating results, the impact of GMOs on cognitive processes, particularly decision-making and behavioral preferences, is significant and requires further investigation. These new findings on the effects of GMOs, particularly on human will and desires, force us to reconsider our relationship with at least some types of gut microbes.
A new approach called “behavioral microbiomes” is being used to study how microbes influence behavior. This approach considers multiple factors beyond the mere presence of microorganisms. It covers the metabolic activity of microbes, interactions between various microbial species, as well as host genetics and environment. The researchers argue that a multidimensional approach is necessary to fully understand the intricate relationship between the microbiome and behavior. They suggest that this approach could have important implications for fields such as neuroscience, psychiatry and microbiology. The microbiota influences a wide range of human behaviors, including exercise habits, addictions, sleep patterns, and even moral judgments. However, the impact of GMOs on our appetite and food preferences can have significant effects on our health and contribute to the development of diseases.
The effect of GMOs on dietary choices
Some notable research suggests that our gut microbiome plays an important role in determining our eating behavior and dietary choices. Scientists have found that mice with a less diverse microbiome tend to consume a higher proportion of fat, while those with a more diverse microbiome tend to consume more sugar. Some studies have shown that gut microbes may contribute to obese people’s preference for unhealthy, high-calorie foods.
A high proportion of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla, which is widely accepted as a normal balance of the microbiota, has been linked to increased appetite and weight gain. These bacteria are believed to play a crucial role in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and the production of short-chain fatty acids. The study found that the composition of gut microbes differs between obese and lean people. When gut microbes from obese mice were transferred to lean mice, the lean mice developed a preference for foods high in fat and sugar. The findings suggest that the gut microbiome may have a significant impact on food preferences and weight gain. Therefore, the individual’s microbiota type must be taken into account when designing a dietary program to manage eating disorders, obesity, and metabolic diseases. [1].
Microbiome and personalized diet
Personalized nutrition is a novel approach to diet and nutrition that considers an individual’s distinctive characteristics, including their genes, lifestyle, and dietary preferences. It uses advanced technologies, including genetic testing, blood analysis and artificial intelligence, to develop personalized nutrition plans that meet individual needs. This approach aims to optimize health, prevent and manage chronic diseases, improve sports performance and achieve specific fitness goals. Personalized nutrition may involve specific food recommendations, meal times, supplements, and lifestyle modifications that are customized to meet each individual’s unique needs. Until now, the most important factor in personalized nutrition was the genotype of the individuals; However, the microbiome plays an important role in personalized nutrition, because it can affect how the body processes and absorbs nutrients.
The composition of the microbiome can vary between individuals, which can affect their response to various types of foods and diets. For example, certain individuals may possess a microbiome that is more adept at metabolizing high-fiber foods, while others may harbor a microbiome that is highly proficient at digesting fat. By analyzing an individual’s microbiome, personalized nutrition plans can be developed that take into account their unique needs and preferences. Additionally, interventions such as probiotics and prebiotics can be used to modify the microbiome and improve its function, which could lead to better nutritional and overall health outcomes. [2].
Recent evidence suggests that genetic testing could allow for personalized dietary recommendations based on an individual’s genetic makeup. Certain genes can affect how the body metabolizes certain nutrients, allowing for personalized dietary recommendations. Additionally, analyzing an individual’s microbiome can provide valuable information about food digestion and absorption, which can lead to personalized recommendations for optimal gut health. However, more research is needed in this area and caution should be taken to avoid oversimplifying the relationship between genetics, microbiome and nutrition.
