Gut Microbiota Modulation Through Mediterranean Diet Foods: Implications for Human Health

Pasquale Perrone; Stefania D’Angelo

doi:10.3390/nu17060948

journal article Open Access Mar 08, 2025

Gut Microbiota Modulation Through Mediterranean Diet Foods: Implications for Human Health

Pasquale Perrone

Stefania D’Angelo

Nutrients Vol. 17 No. 6 pp. 948 · MDPI AG

View at Publisher Save 10.3390/nu17060948

Abstract

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is widely recognized for its health benefits, particularly in modulating gut microbiota composition and reducing the risk of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases. Characterized by a high intake of plant-based foods, monounsaturated fats, and polyphenols, primarily from extra virgin olive oil, the MD fosters the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and Roseburia, which produce short-chain fatty acids that enhance gut barrier integrity, reduce inflammation, and improve metabolic homeostasis. Clinical and preclinical studies have proved that the MD is associated with increased microbial diversity, reduced pro-inflammatory bacteria, and improved markers of insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and cognitive function. Additionally, the MD positively influences the gut microbiota in various conditions, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration, potentially mitigating systemic inflammation and enhancing neuroprotective mechanisms. Emerging evidence suggests that MD variants, such as the Green-MD, and their integration with probiotics can further optimize gut microbiota composition and metabolic parameters. While the beneficial impact of the MD on the gut microbiota and overall health is well supported, further long-term clinical trials are needed to better understand individual variability and improve dietary interventions tailored to different populations.

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Details

Published: Mar 08, 2025
Vol/Issue: 17(6)
Pages: 948
License: View

Authors

P

Pasquale Perrone

Department of Medical, Movement, and Wellbeing Sciences, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy

S

Stefania D’Angelo

Department of Medical, Movement, and Wellbeing Sciences, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy

Funding

CUP Award: 2022J2NT4L

Next Generation EU Award: 2022J2NT4L

Cite This Article

Pasquale Perrone, Stefania D’Angelo (2025). Gut Microbiota Modulation Through Mediterranean Diet Foods: Implications for Human Health. Nutrients, 17(6), 948. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17060948

Gut Microbiota Modulation Through Mediterranean Diet Foods: Implications for Human Health

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