Understanding the effects of dietary components on the gut microbiome and human health

The gut microbiome is the complex microbial ecosystem found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. It plays a vital role in host development, physiology and metabolism, and has been implicated as a factor in brain function, behavior, mental health, and many disease states. While many factors, including host genetics and environmental factors, contribute to the composition of the gut microbiome, diet plays a large role. Microorganisms differ in their nutrient requirements, and alterations in host dietary composition can have strong impacts on the microbial inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract. The health implications of these dietary and microbial changes are relevant as various global populations consume diets comprised of different macronutrient ratios, and many diets promote alterations to recommended macronutrient ratios to promote health. This review will outline the ways in which specific macro- and micronutrients impact the gut microbiome and host health.