Food-gut microbiota interactions

The gut microbiota is now well recognized as a key component in regulating various human processes, including metabolism, cardiovascular system, immunity, as well as brain and cognitive function. Diet has emerged as a main contributor to the microbiota composition and functional capacity; as such, increasing research is also now deciphering the food-microbiota interaction as a modulator of health and disease. Here, we review this food-microbiota interaction from a viewpoint of nutrient bioavailability and the importance in host health (including obesity, metabolic health, immunity, gastrointestinal, and mental health). Additionally, underlying mechanisms (e.g., gut hormones, microbial metabolites, epigenetic modulation, or inflammation) will be discussed in the context of different host outcomes. Furthering the understanding of the diet-gut microbes interaction and its significance for the host will be imperative in the development of future microbiota-targeted dietary approaches to improve health.