Host-microbial interactions in the metabolism of different dietary fats

Although generally presumed to be isocaloric, dietary fats can differ in their energetic contributions and metabolic effects. Here, we show how an explicit consideration of the gut microbiome and its interactions with human physiology can enrich our understanding of dietary fat metabolism. We outline how variable human metabolic responses to different dietary fats, such as altered ileal digestibility or bile acid production, have downstream effects on the gut microbiome that differentially promote energy gain and inflammation. By incorporating host-microbial interactions into energetic models of human nutrition, we can achieve greater insight into the underlying mechanisms of diet-driven metabolic disease.

Automated summary

Dietary fats can have different metabolic effects due to interactions with the gut microbiome, affecting digestion, energy gain, and inflammation. Incorporating host-microbial interactions into energetic models of human nutrition provides greater insight into the mechanisms of diet-induced metabolic diseases.