Diet may influence CHF linked to gut microbiota

An individual’s gut microbiota profile appears to be associated with chronic heart failure (CHF) risk factors, potentially mediated by microbial metabolites, results of a recent study have shown.

A team of investigators performed a literature review of cross-sectional studies and found a potential link between several gut microbiotas and CHK risk factors.

Individuals at risk of CHF were found to have increased levels of Prevotella, Klebsiella, Romboutsia, Catenibacterium, Clostridium, Holdemanella, Ruminococcus, Coprococcus, Parabacteroides, Bacteroides, Lachnoclostridium, Streptococcus, and Megamonas.

On the other hand, decreased levels of Oscillibacter, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, Roseburia, Faecalibacterium, Pseudobutyrivibrio, and Eubacterium were observed.

Such shifts in the microbiota profile were associated with increased TMAO production and impaired short-chain fatty acids production. In addition, dietary intake and microbial metabolites contributed to the gut microbiota associated with CHF.

“Dietary patterns may influence CHF associated gut microbiota and metabolites,” the investigators said. “Future research is needed to investigate how dietary modifications can modulate gut microbiota and its metabolites in CHF patients.”

CHF is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases among Asians. Individuals with specific health risks, such as obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and coronary artery disease, are more likely to develop CHF.

“Current evidence is limited to understanding the link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and CHF,” according to the investigators.