Impact of long‐term dietary patterns and short‐term nutrient intake on the gut microbiota of children 4 to 8 years of age

Abstract

The gut microbiota is undergoing rapid changes in the first few years of life and diet plays a fundamental role in shaping the gut microbiota. It is commonly believed that by age 3 years, the microbiota composition resembles that of an adult. However, recent research shows differences in the microbiota composition between pre‐adolescence children and adults. Little is known about how diet influences the gut microbiota composition in young, healthy children. Herein, the effect of long‐term dietary patterns and short‐term dietary intake on longitudinal changes in microbiota composition were studied in children aged 4–8 years. A food frequency questionnaire, 3‐day food record and stool sample were collected for each participant (n=24) at baseline, 6‐weeks and 6‐months post‐baseline. Nutrient intake was analyzed using Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR). Dietary patterns based on food groups were identified using principal component analysis. Bacterial genomic DNA was analyzed for total bacteria, Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Roseburia by quantitative real‐time qPCR. Distinct microbial profiles were identified for three long‐term dietary patterns. Compared to the other two dietary patterns, a diet pattern characterized by a higher intake of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, legumes, nuts and seeds, but also sugary drinks and desserts showed higher abundance of total bacteria. A diet pattern defined by a higher intake of whole grains and starchy vegetables was characterized by lower density of Lactobacillus and Roseburia, but higher density of Prevotella. Lastly, a diet pattern characterized by higher intake of refined grains, French fries and a lower intake in salty snacks was associated with lower abundance of total bacteria. Short‐term dietary fiber intake was not significantly correlated with bacterial abundance. Overall, there was no significant difference in the mean of the bacteria concentration between baseline and 6 weeks. However, bacterial abundance differed for some individuals between the two time points. In conclusion, long‐term dietary patterns influence the fecal microbiota of children aged 4 to 8 years. Analysis of 6 month samples will inform findings relative to the longitudinal stability of the gut microbiota. Future analysis includes microbiome analyses using next generation sequencing and assessment of short chain fatty acid concentrations.Support or Funding InformationUSDA Hatch Grant ILLU‐698‐311