Sex-Specific Diet-Microbiota Interactions in Ageing: Implications for Healthy Longevity

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Microbiome research
• Nutritional science

Background:

• Diet-microbiota interactions are crucial for aging.
• Sex-specific dimensions of these interactions are under-explored.
• Human studies often lack sex stratification, relying on preclinical models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current knowledge on sex-specific pathways linking diet, microbiota, and healthy aging.
• To highlight the importance of sex as a biological variable in aging research.
• To inform personalized nutrition strategies for healthy aging.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review integrating human observational studies, RCTs, and animal research.
• Evidence organized into four domains: microbial composition, metabolites, diet, and sex-specific interactions.
• Focus on gut microbiota's role in aging and sex differences.

Main Results:

• Aging involves gut dysbiosis, reduced short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and altered metabolites.
• Dietary factors like fiber, polyphenols, and omega-3s can restore microbial balance.
• Sex differences include menopausal SCFA decline in women and higher TMAO in men, with sex-dependent responses to interventions.

Conclusions:

• Diet-microbiota interactions impact aging via sex-specific metabolic, hormonal, and immunological routes.
• Sex as a biological variable is critical for personalized nutrition.
• Strategies supporting healthy aging must consider these sex-specific dynamics.