Study Finds That Vegans Have Healthier Gut Microbiomes Than Omnivores

A study conducted by ZOE compared the gut microbiomes of meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. The study found that vegans had the healthiest diets, followed by vegetarians and then omnivores. The gut microbiome compositions of the three groups were significantly different, with omnivores showing higher levels of gut bacteria linked to inflammation and poor cardiometabolic health.

Vegans had more species of bacteria that ferment fiber and produce short-chain fatty acids, leading to reduced inflammation and healthier blood sugar levels. Overall, omnivores had fewer "good" gut bacteria and more "bad" gut bacteria compared to vegetarians and vegans. However, omnivores who consumed healthy plant-based foods had some similarities in their gut microbiomes with those following a vegan diet. Plant-based dietary patterns have been associated with lower heart disease risk, slower aging, and reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.