Gut Microbiota in Postprandial Immunometabolism: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Gut microbiota is critical for human health, contributing to various biological processes, such as immune responses and metabolism. Postprandial immunometabolism is the metabolic and immune activity that occurs after a meal and is influenced by the gut microbiota. In this review, we discuss how gut microbiota influences postprandial immune responses and metabolism. We explore how short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other microbial metabolites influence immune cell activation and metabolic pathways (nutrient breakdown) during the postprandial period. Imbalances in the gut microbiota (dysbiosis) can cause immune and metabolic dysfunction, which may contribute to metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, nutrition strategies such as probiotics and prebiotics can promote a healthy microbiota, enhancing postprandial metabolic and immune responses. This review discusses the latest research and the potential of microbiota manipulation to maintain metabolic health and prevent metabolic diseases.