The future of nutrition is personal -- study

A new study shows that food has very different impacts on the gut health of each individual, underscoring that the future of nutrition will be personal.

The US study by the University of Minnesota showed that foods with similar nutritional profiles had very different effects on gut health due to the difference in each individual’s gut biome (intestinal bacteria).

A report on the study noted that while each participant’s food choices affected their own microbiome, with certain foods boosting or reducing the amount of bacterial strains, there wasn’t a straightforward correlation between each individual. For example, beans boosted the proportion of certain bacteria in one person but had far less effect in another.

Nutritional consultant, Vanessa Ascencao said the latest research backs growing evidence that due to our unique genetic make-up, health and nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all approach.

“Research shows that in addition to widely accepted nutritional principles such as choosing a diet of whole, natural foods over processed and sugar-laden meals, dietary advice is set to become increasingly personalised based on an individual’s gut profile and the effects of specific foods on this.”

“At the very least we should strive for a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle supported by high quality supplements such as Bio-Berberine Complex with the extract of a powerful plant compound, berberine, which research shows supports gut health, helps reduce the damaging effects of inflammation on the intestinal lining and plays an important role in regulating metabolism. It also contains potent South African innovation green tea extract, Origine 8, which helps fight disease, and chromium which helps regulate blood sugar levels and counters cravings.”

Ascencao also recommends the following proven tips for improved health:

• Avoid sugary, processed and junk food as they are nutrient deficient.
• Take a good probiotic and increase intake of foods like garlic, kale, bone broth and turmeric.
• Eat lots of healthy fats such as raw nuts and seeds, avos, pure olive oil and fatty fish.
• Try Purest Omega 3 from the highest quality, sustainably produced, wild Alaskan fish.
• Get enough good quality sleep and manage stress.
• Eat a nutritious diet filled with natural whole foods such as fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise daily