Fibres for a healthy microbiome, YoUr PERsonal Gut Intervention

The project "Fibres for a healthy microbiome, YoUr PERsonal Gut Intervention" is a collaboration between public and private partners, focused on improving gut health through dietary fibers. Dietary fibers are essential for a healthy gut microbiome, but not every type of fiber works equally well for everyone due to the large variation in our gut microbiome composition. The aim of this project is to develop a new, innovative testing method that will allow people to receive an effective mix of ingredients impacting gut microbiota taking into account their unique gut microbiome.

Gut health is of great societal importance. Many people do not consume enough fiber, even though fiber is essential for healthy digestion and for preventing diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In the Netherlands, a large part of the population has a fiber deficiency, which contributes to higher healthcare costs and a lower quality of life. Innovation is needed to make dietary advice more effective, so that more people can benefit from the health advantages of fibers.

This project addresses this challenge by first testing participants in the laboratory: their gut microbiome (stool) is exposed to different fibers. Based on these results, predictions are made about which fibers will be most effective in the long run. These predictions are validated in a follow-up study with the same participants to check whether the selected fibers indeed have the expected effect.

The expected results are a validated method for identification of the best fiber mixture and the role of processing therein, and for designing nutritional studies more efficiently. This could lead to new products  that help people improve their gut health based on their own microbiome. Ultimately, the project contributes to a healthier society and more knowledge about the role of fibers in nutrition.