The effects of fermented vegetables on the gut microbiota for prevention of cardiovascular disease

Melissa Baron, Bin Zuo, Jianmin Chai, Jiangchao Zhao, Alireza Jahan-Mihan, Judith Ochrietor, Andrea Y Arikawa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of regular consumption of fermented vegetables (FVs) on inflammation and the composition of the gut microbiota in adults at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Eighty-seven adults ages 35–64 were randomized into an FV group, who consumed 100 g FVs daily at least five times per week for eight weeks, or a usual diet (UD) group. Blood and stool samples were obtained before and after the intervention. Dependent samples t tests and adjusted linear models were used for within- and between-group comparisons. The mean age and body mass index of participants were 45 years and 30 kg/m 2 , and 80% were female. Bloating or gas was the most common side effect reported (19.3% FV group vs. 9.4% UD group). There were no changes in C-reactive protein, oxidized low-density lipoprotein-receptor 1, angiopoietin-like protein 4, trimethylamine oxide, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein or bacterial alpha diversity between groups. Our findings indicate that consuming 100 g of FVs for at least five days per week for eight weeks does not change inflammatory biomarkers or microbial alpha diversity as measured by the Shannon index. It is possible that higher doses of FVs are necessary to elicit a significant response by gut bacteria.
Original languageAmerican English
Pages (from-to)e6
Number of pages19
JournalGut Microbiome
Volume5
Issue numbere6
DOIs
StatePublished - May 9 2024

Keywords

  • Gut microbiota
  • cardiovascular disease
  • fermented vegetables
  • inflammation
  • C-reactive protein

Disciplines

  • Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition

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