The Impact of Regional Indian Diets on Gut Microbiota: A Unique Microbial Signature

Review by Prof. Nidhi Dave (India)

Study Summary 

India’s diverse dietary patterns, shaped by geography, culture, and traditions, significantly influence the gut microbiome. A recent pan-India study titled LogMPIE (Landscape of Gut Microbiome - Pan India Exploration) examined the gut microbiota of 110 healthy adults across Bhopal (Central India) and Kerala (Southern India), utilizing 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics. The study found that Prevotella copri was dominant in individuals following a high-fiber, plant-based diet, while Bacteroides and Ruminococcus were prevalent in those consuming a mixed or non-vegetarian diet. The study reinforced that regional dietary habits shape gut microbiota composition, potentially influencing metabolic and digestive health.

In addition to this study, broader research on regional Indian diets highlights how traditional foods impact gut microbial diversity:

• • Northern India (wheat-based diet, legumes): Higher Prevotella levels, supporting carbohydrate metabolism.
  • Southern India (rice, fish, coconut): Increased Bacteroides, aiding protein and fat digestion.
  • Western India (fermented foods like dhokla, buttermilk): Rich in probiotics, promoting gut resilience.
  • Eastern India (fermented fish, bamboo shoots): High in lactic acid bacteria, enhancing nutrient absorption and immunity.

Commentary 

This research highlights the deep connection between Indian diets and gut microbiota, emphasizing the role of traditional food habits in maintaining gut health. The predominance of Prevotella copri in fiber-rich Indian diets suggests a protective role in digestion and control of inflammation. Meanwhile, regions with mixed diets show a higher presence of Bacteroides, typically associated with protein and fat metabolism. The study's findings align with global research suggesting that dietary diversity supports a healthier gut microbiome.

However, as this was a cross-sectional study, further longitudinal research is needed to establish causation and explore the impact of regional diets on chronic gut-related disorders like IBD, IBS, and metabolic diseases. The study also opens avenues for personalized probiotic therapies tailored to Indian microbiome variations.

Citation

Pulipati P, Sarkar P, Jakkampudi A, et al. The Indian gut microbiota – is it unique? Indian J Gastroenterol 2020;39:133-140.

PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32388710/

IndiaBioscience: https://indiabioscience.org/news/2019/gut-instinct-how-diets-shape-the-unique-composition-of-indian-guts

Gut Microbiota for Health: https://www.gutmicrobiotaforhealth.com/the-largest-gut-microbiome-study-of-the-indian-population-reveals-microbial-composition-is-both-region-and-diet-specific

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