“You can defend yourself better from infections with a good diet”, states Matteo Bassetti, also explaining the key role of a particular acid.
In a world increasingly attentive to health and well-being, new research emerges that highlights the importance of correct nutrition in preventing infections.
L’infectious disease specialist Matteo Bassetti brings to light a study published in ‘Lancet Microbiome’, highlighting the crucial role of the intestinal microbiome and butyric acid.
Butyric acid: ally of health
The intestinal microbiome has long been studied for its influence on the general health of the individual. The study cited by Bassetti demonstrates how a intestinal microbiota rich in bacteria capable of producing butyric acid is essential in the prevention of serious infections. Analyzing 600 people hospitalized for severe infections, it was found that they had fewer such bacteria than healthy individuals.
Butyric acid plays a key role in maintaining intestinal health and protecting against infections. This short-chain fatty acid not only nourishes intestinal cells, but also helps regulate the immune response. The research highlights how this is possible increase butyric acid levels through dietconsuming foods that directly contain it or promote its production.
Among foods direct source of butyric acid include butter, cheese, yogurt and fermented milk. Surprisingly, some vegetable oils such as coconut oil and palm oil are also rich in this precious component. The latter has sparked debates in our country due to its alleged negative implications on health; however, according to Bassetti, this classification appears hasty and arbitrary in light of the new discoveries.
Bassetti concludes by underlining the need for further studies to explore how to enhance butyric acid levels in the body through specific food choices and the use of probiotics. The aim is to develop effective dietary strategies in the prevention of serious infections, as well as to confirm the key role of good nutrition for general health.
This research opens new perspectives on the link between diet and the immune system. It highlights how important it is not only what we eat but also how our foods influence the composition of our gut microbiome. A good diet could therefore be a fundamental key not only to maintaining an optimal general state of health but also to better defend ourselves from external threats such as serious infections.
