Abstract
Edible insects are often considered a nutritious, protein-rich, environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional livestock with growing popularity among North American consumers. While the nutrient composition of several insects is characterized, all potential health impacts have not been evaluated. In addition to high protein levels, crickets contain chitin and other fibers that may influence gut health. In this study, we evaluated the effects of consuming 25 grams/day whole cricket powder on gut microbiota composition, while assessing safety and tolerability. Twenty healthy adults participated in this six-week, double-blind, crossover dietary intervention. Participants were randomized into two study arms and consumed either cricket-containing or control breakfast foods for 14 days, followed by a washout period and assignment to the opposite treatment. Blood and stool samples were collected at baseline and after each treatment period to assess liver function and microbiota changes. Results demonstrate cricket consumption is tolerable and non-toxic at the studied dose. Cricket powder supported growth of the probiotic bacterium, Bifidobacterium animalis, which increased 5.7-fold. Cricket consumption was also associated with reduced plasma TNF-α. These data suggest that eating crickets may improve gut health and reduce systemic inflammation; however, more research is needed to understand these effects and underlying mechanisms.
Highlights
Diet is an especially relevant factor in defining the composition of gut microbiota[11], and even small shifts have demonstrated meaningful effects[5,12]
This study aims to determine if insect powder acts as a prebiotic, supporting growth of selective commensal bacterial species that confer health benefits
Twenty healthy adults, aged 20–48, with a body mass index (BMI) of 19.58–29.19 kg/m2 enrolled in the study, and all 20 completed the study
Summary
Diet is an especially relevant factor in defining the composition of gut microbiota[11], and even small shifts have demonstrated meaningful effects[5,12]. Chitin (C8H13O5N)n) is a modified polysaccharide (poly-beta-1,4-N-acetylglucosamine) containing nitrogen with a structure analogous to indigestible cellulose; it is considered an insoluble fiber with potential prebiotic properties that could benefit human health by selectively promoting the growth of beneficial bacterial species in the intestines, though this relationship is not well understood. The health implications and the tolerability of insects, insect-based food, and insect-derived dietary fibers, including chitin, have not been assessed. The tolerability and safety of edible insects as a food and fiber source, as well as the effects of insect consumption on human microbiota, mucosal immunity, and other host parameters must be better understood in order to anticipate and optimize the effects of edible insects on human health for the 2 billion people that regularly eat them – as well as future consumers in the globally ascendant market for edible insects
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