Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases: From the Basic Science to the Clinical Practice

A special issue of Gastroenterology Insights (ISSN 2036-7422). This special issue belongs to the section "Gastrointestinal Disease".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2024) | Viewed by 13894

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
1. Research and Training Center in Human Nutrition, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
2. Clinical Nutrition Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
Interests: clinical nutrition; perioperative nutrition; body composition; gut microbiota dietary modulation; digestive cancer
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are thrilled to invite you to contribute to a groundbreaking compilation that delves into the intricate relationship between nutrition and gastrointestinal diseases. This exceptional endeavor seeks to bridge the knowledge gap between basic scientific principles and their tangible implications in clinical practice.

In recent years, the connection between nutrition and gastrointestinal health has emerged as a pivotal area of research, offering profound insights into the etiology, progression and management of various gastrointestinal disorders. This comprehensive collection aims to explore the multidimensional facets of this relationship, from unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying nutrient–gut interactions to translating these findings into effective clinical strategies.

We welcome manuscripts that cover a wide spectrum of themes, including, but not limited to:

Nutrient absorption and gut barrier function: investigate how nutrient absorption impacts the gut integrity and its role in gastrointestinal diseases;

Microbiota-mediated effects: explore the interplay between diet, the gut microbiota composition and its consequences on gastrointestinal health;

Dietary interventions: present cutting-edge clinical trials and interventions showcasing the influence of specific diets on preventing, managing or ameliorating gastrointestinal disorders;

Inflammatory responses: examine the immunological aspects of diet-induced inflammation in gastrointestinal diseases and potential avenues for therapeutic interventions;

Nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition: discuss how the individual genetic makeup influences nutrient–gene interactions and their relevance in gastrointestinal disease predisposition;

Emerging nutritional therapies: shed light on innovative nutritional therapies and their application in the context of gastrointestinal disease treatment.

Authors are encouraged to submit original research, reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case studies and perspectives that align with the themes of this Special Issue. All submissions will undergo rigorous peer reviewing to ensure the highest scientific quality and relevance.

Dr. Emanuele Rinninella
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • nutrition
  • gastrointestinal diseases
  • nutrient–gut interactions
  • microbiota
  • nutrigenomics
  • inflammation
  • gut barrier function
  • dietary interventions
  • clinical practice
  • molecular mechanisms
  • personalized nutrition
  • immunology
  • nutritional therapies
  • nutrient absorption
  • functional foods

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 8322 KiB  
Article
Dietary Fiber Deficiency Accelerates Colitis in Mice in the Short Term Independent of Short-Chain Fatty Acids
by Shoma Kanda, Haruki Usuda, Sonoko Karino, Takayuki Okamoto, Tomomi Niibayashi, Takahisa Yano, Kohji Naora and Koichiro Wada
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(3), 730-743; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15030052 - 21 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 849
Abstract
It is believed that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—the bacterial metabolites produced by the digestion of dietary fiber—potentially contribute to the prevention of colitis. However, this beneficial effect has not been conclusively proven. We thus attempted to verify this beneficial effect by examining whether [...] Read more.
It is believed that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—the bacterial metabolites produced by the digestion of dietary fiber—potentially contribute to the prevention of colitis. However, this beneficial effect has not been conclusively proven. We thus attempted to verify this beneficial effect by examining whether colitis can be caused or worsened by the deficiency in dietary fiber in mice. We found that dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis was accelerated under a fiber-deficient condition, but the fiber deficiency itself did not provoke colitis. Moreover, episodes of diarrhea and epithelium damage in the large intestine were found upon analysis 24 h after the intervention. Unfortunately, these symptoms and tissue damage could not be ameliorated by administering SCFAs. On the other hand, a fiber-deficient condition increased the population of Desulfovibrio spp. and decreased the population of Lactobaccillus spp. regardless of the presence or absence of DSS upon analysis 24 h after the intervention. These results suggest that a deficiency in dietary fiber makes the intestinal environment irritable to colitis-inducing stimuli within the short term. This change does not appear to be related to the presence of SCFAs, but to the alteration of microbiota. Hence, a regular intake of dietary fiber is strongly recommended to avoid colitis and preserve intestinal health. Full article
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18 pages, 321 KiB  
Article
Habitual Dietary Intake and Adherence to Dietary Guidelines of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
by Małgorzata Godala, Ewelina Gaszyńska, Konrad Walczak and Ewa Małecka-Wojciesko
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(1), 69-86; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15010005 - 18 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1230
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) belongs to a group of autoimmune conditions characterized by chronic inflammation and mucosal ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. The etiology of IBD is complex. The etiological factors include environmental factors, among which diet is important. The aim of this [...] Read more.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) belongs to a group of autoimmune conditions characterized by chronic inflammation and mucosal ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. The etiology of IBD is complex. The etiological factors include environmental factors, among which diet is important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diet of IBD patients. This case–control study was carried out on 82 patients with IBD; the control group consisted of 80 clinically healthy subjects. Food intake was assessed using a 24 h recall and frequency food questionnaire. Energy intake in the IBD group was insufficient and significantly lower than in the control group. The energy intake in the group of patients with active IBD was significantly lower than in the group of subjects in remission. The total fat and protein intake was significantly lower in the IBD group compared to the healthy subjects. IBD patients were characterized by underconsumption of all food groups analyzed, except for the intake of red meat and poultry. Our study showed inadequate intake of energy and most nutrients in IBD patients, even during the remission period. The study indicates the need for routine assessment of dietary intake and nutrition among IBD patients, as well as potential dietary interventions aimed at improving the energy and nutritional quality of diet in order to optimize treatment outcomes and prevent the development of accompanying diseases. Full article
10 pages, 267 KiB  
Article
Correlation between Interleukin-17, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Pepsinogen in Helicobacter pylori Infected Gastritis
by Jeanne Winarta, Bradley Jimmy Waleleng, Nelly Tandean Wenas, Fujiyanto, Oscar Miguna and Marco Rahardja
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(1), 32-41; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15010003 - 10 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1450
Abstract
Gastritis is an inflammatory process in the gastric mucosa and submucosa caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The infection modulates immune components, such as interleukin (IL) 17, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and pepsinogen. This study aimed to determine the relationship [...] Read more.
Gastritis is an inflammatory process in the gastric mucosa and submucosa caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The infection modulates immune components, such as interleukin (IL) 17, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and pepsinogen. This study aimed to determine the relationship between IL-17, hsCRP and pepsinogen in H. pylori infected gastritis. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at Prof. Dr. R. D. Kandou General Hospital Manado from May-July 2022. Measurement of blood sample levels of IL-17, hsCRP, pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II and pepsinogen I/II ratio. Spearman’s statistical test was used to determine correlations between these variables. This study involved 48 patients aged 21–64, with a majority of females (67%). IL-7 had a positive correlation with pepsinogen I (r = 0.292; p = 0.044) and pepsinogen II (r = 0.288; p = 0.047) in H. pylori infected gastritis. Meanwhile, IL-17 with pepsinogen I/II ratio, hsCRP with pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, pepsinogen I/II ratio and IL-17 with hsCRP did not show a significant correlation (p > 0.05). There was a correlation between IL 17 to pepsinogen I and pepsinogen II in gastritis infected with H. pylori, suggesting the importance of these early markers of inflammation in determining the severity of gastric mucosal inflammation in pylori-infected patients. Full article

Review

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12 pages, 913 KiB  
Review
Herbs and Spices: Modulation of Gut Microbiota for Healthy Aging
by Samjhana Pradhan, Cynthia Blanton, Javier Ochoa-Reparaz, Nirajan Bhattarai and Kavita Sharma
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(2), 447-458; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15020032 - 22 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2117
Abstract
The gut microbiota interacts with the host’s immune function, and evidence supports a relationship between the gut microbiota and age-related disease. Consumption of herbs and spices, which contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, is associated with gut microbiota characteristics that may act to [...] Read more.
The gut microbiota interacts with the host’s immune function, and evidence supports a relationship between the gut microbiota and age-related disease. Consumption of herbs and spices, which contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, is associated with gut microbiota characteristics that may act to prevent or manage age-related declines in health. This review evaluates the evidence describing the effect of herb/spice intake on the gut microbiota and health during aging. Commonly consumed herbs/spices, their impact on prominent gut bacteria phyla (Bacteriodetes, Firmicutes), and diseases of aging are highlighted. Studies in humans and animals are reviewed. Mechanisms of action are discussed, and future directions for research are proposed. Dietary enrichment with herbs and spices is a potential novel intervention for mitigating declines in physiological function with age. Full article
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16 pages, 1613 KiB  
Review
An Updated Review on Probiotic Production and Applications
by Guru Prasad Venkatesh, Gouthami Kuruvalli, Khajamohiddin Syed and Vaddi Damodara Reddy
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(1), 221-236; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15010016 - 11 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7599
Abstract
Microorganisms are ubiquitous and have been exploited for centuries to generate primary and secondary metabolites essential for human welfare and environmental sustainability. Microorganisms occupy a prominent position in the industrial sector due to their unique properties, such as the limited time and space [...] Read more.
Microorganisms are ubiquitous and have been exploited for centuries to generate primary and secondary metabolites essential for human welfare and environmental sustainability. Microorganisms occupy a prominent position in the industrial sector due to their unique properties, such as the limited time and space required for their growth and proliferation, as well as their easy manipulation of the genetic material. Among all the microorganisms, probiotics have grabbed the attention of researchers because of their nonpathogenic nature and immersive application in treating digestive ailments and vitamin deficiency, boosting immunity, and detoxifying harmful chemicals. Furthermore, probiotics are widely used to treat various diseases such as constipation, colon cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity, as well as a range of intestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease, among others. The updated information on these diseases and the role of probiotics has not been updated in the past few years. The present review covers updated information on the role of probiotics in these topics. The growth of populations around the globe has attracted the attention of scientists, primarily investigating diverse technologies to meet the gap between probiotic production and demand. With the support of standardized tools and techniques, researchers have explored the potent probiotic strains feasible for industrial production and treating health ailments. In the current review, we have curated the potential information essential for the screening, strain selection, production, and application necessary for probiotic researchers. Full article
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