Anyone who has high cholesterol levels is at risk of a heart attack or stroke in the long term. However, a healthy diet can significantly reduce the risk.
Billions of bacteria collectively make up the human microbiome in the gut. These are not only involved in the metabolism, but also influence many other processes in our body. Researchers have now found that the microbiome, also known as the intestinal flora, is also related to cholesterol levels. If the intestinal microbiome is in balance and thus also the LDL cholesterol, studies have shown that the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks or strokes decreases.
Diet influences the microbiome: intestinal flora protects against diseases
Every person has a unique microbiome. Genes, environmental factors and the individual medical history shape the composition of the bacteria in the intestine. The greater the diversity of the intestinal bacteria located there, the healthier the intestinal flora appears – and thus the entire body. There is almost no organ left that is not associated with the intestinal microbiome.
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If there are only a few species or if a special bacterial strain predominates in the intestine, this has a rather negative effect on health. The following diseases are associated with an altered microbiome:
- multiple sclerosis
- overweight
- diabetes
- allergies and asthma
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s
- Parkinson’s
The microbiome in the intestine is significantly influenced by nutrition. The foods we eat can therefore affect gut health. Processed foods, high fat and sugar seem to have more of a negative impact. On the other hand, a healthy, high-fiber diet is particularly good. Fresh fruit and vegetables should be a regular part of the menu because of the fiber they contain.
Diet affects the microbiome and cholesterol: study finds connection
High-fiber foods have a positive effect on the microbiome. A change in diet can also be helpful if you have high cholesterol. Cholesterols are fats that are ingested through food. Once in the bloodstream, they can deposit on the inner walls of the blood vessels and endanger the vessels. LDL cholesterol in particular is associated with an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke. The fiber found in plant-based foods, on the other hand, appears to lower bad LDL cholesterol.
It has long been unclear why a healthy diet high in fiber has a positive effect on cardiovascular health. However, research shows how important the gut is. “There have long been observations that metabolites from the intestine have an impact on the development of cardiovascular diseases. In recent years we have been more concerned with the bacterial flora of the intestine and their metabolic products and observed that certain metabolic products are protective,” explains Arash Haghikia from the Charité Berlin to the SWR.
Propionic acid has a positive effect on cholesterol levels
Behind the cholesterol-lowering effect of fiber is the so-called propionic acid, which is produced by the intestinal bacteria when they digest fiber, as scientists from the Ruhr University Bochum found out. As part of the study, the research team led by Alexander Duscha examined the influence of taking propionic acid on patients with multiple sclerosis. The scientists found that preparations with propionic acid not only had a positive effect on the symptoms. The supplements also improved LDL cholesterol levels over a long period of time. A similar result was obtained cardiological study at the Charité Berlin.
The intestinal bacteria produce various messenger substances from their own metabolism, which have a direct influence on health. This includes something called propionic acid, which causes the gut to absorb fewer “unhealthy” fats like cholesterol. The propionic acid produced by the intestinal microbes lowers the cholesterol intake and thus the cholesterol level directly. Since more propionic acid is released with a high-fiber diet, a change in diet also has a cholesterol-lowering effect.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about clinical pictures.