Diet and the Gut Microbiome in Early Life

Abstract

Gut microbiota development at early life and alterations in the gut microbiome are important for the host well-being throughout life. Host's genetics, maternal health and nutrition, delivery mode, feeding mode, antibiotic exposure and environmental factors influence the gut microbiota, yet diet is considered the primary modulator of the gut microbiota at all ages. Breast-feeding and weaning during infancy and long-term dietary habits in adulthood contribute to gut microbiota colonization and establishment. Diet interventions hence followed as therapeutic approaches for modulating and restoring healthy microbiota and its metabolic activity for reducing the risk of microbiome-associated diseases in a personalized way.