‘Gut health, the microbiota and dietary choices: implications for dietetic research and practice’

Dietary fibre is beneficial to health, including the prevention and amelioration of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and its sequalae. The health benefits associated with dietary fibre have historically been attributed to its physicochemical properties. However, increasing interest in the gastrointestinal microbiota has led to hypotheses that microbiota composition and metabolites may play a role in these fibre-related health outcomes. Evidence is required on the health outcomes that are mediated by the gut microbiota following the consumption of specific types and amounts of fibre. Given that fibres sourced from grain foods have been associated with many health benefits, this thesis focuses somewhat on these foods. It addresses the associated potential mechanisms and relevant metabolic outcomes as well as the issues around translation to consumer advice.