Nestlé Health Science Initiates Groundbreaking Research to Explore How Lifestyle Influences Gut Health
Nestlé Health Science has embarked on a trailblazing longitudinal study named FIBER-IMPACT, which aims to delve into the crucial role of lifestyle factors, particularly dietary fiber, in shaping the human microbiome. This innovative research will involve 60 healthy adults and their households over a 16-week observational period. Participants will enhance their diets through chia seeds while supplying stool and blood samples, completing daily dietary and stress surveys, and taking photos of their meals to provide a comprehensive data set.
The focus of this study is to evaluate the influence of dietary fiber on gut health, particularly concerning the spore colony-forming units (SCFU) in the microbiome. Additionally, the research seeks to assess how stress levels can impact microbiome composition, identify potential biomarkers in the host, and explore the connections between microbial composition, metabolic functions, and overall health outcomes.
Dr. Jason Goldsmith, senior director of Clinical Operations and Microbiome Sciences at Nestlé Health Science, will lead this impressive team comprising of distinguished experts in the field. Collaborators include Dr. Thaddeus Stappenbeck from the Cleveland Clinic, who specializes in inflammatory and infectious diseases, Dr. Katrine Whiteson of UC Irvine, who focuses on human-associated microbial and viral communities, and Dr. Sonia Grego from Coprata, whose innovative technology supports efficient sample collection during the study.
"This research will help unlock how daily habits and nutrition shape the microbiome, paving the way for future breakthroughs," stated Dr. Goldsmith. Dr. Stappenbeck emphasized the translation of discoveries regarding gut bacteria into practical preventive strategies for diseases. Meanwhile, Dr. Whiteson expressed excitement about showcasing fiber's powerful role in microbiome health and empowering individuals in managing their health through manageable dietary interventions.
To streamline the participation process for volunteers, the study will incorporate advanced stool sampling tools and digital tracking methods, considerably lessening the burden compared to traditional research methods. All aspects of sample collection and data aggregation will operate under the oversight of an Institutional Review Board (IRB), ensuring participant safety and privacy during clinical research activities. Dr. Grego highlighted the convenience and hygiene offered by Coprata’s technology, facilitating a more comfortable experience for participants.
Participants will be compensated for their involvement in this significant study. For those interested in more information about the study or exploring enrollment opportunities, resources are available at ClinicalTrials.gov. Furthermore, Nestlé Health Science is keen on collaborating with additional partners to enhance microbiome research, inviting academic researchers to submit proposals via the Nestlé Health Science Medical Affairs website.
About the Collaborators
Nestlé Health Science operates as a pivotal business unit of Nestlé, dedicated to redefining health management through an extensive portfolio that integrates science-based consumer health, medical nutrition, pharmaceutical interventions, and vitamins and supplements. With operations in over 140 countries and a workforce exceeding 12,000 employees globally, Nestlé Health Science empowers healthier lives through nutrition. More details can be found on their official website.
The Cleveland Clinic's Department of Inflammation and Immunity strives to identify and address the root causes of inflammatory and infectious diseases, leading to new therapeutic discoveries aimed at conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. For more information, visit the Cleveland Clinic’s website.
UC Irvine's Whiteson Lab delves into the complex interplay of human-associated microbial and viral communities, focusing on how dietary influences, particularly fiber, play a role in human health. Additional insights can be accessed through their laboratory’s webpage.
Coprata stands at the forefront of health technology with revolutionary solutions for gut health monitoring. Their user-friendly stool collection tools, at-home gut health testing kits, and cutting-edge Smart Toilet for real-time health insights aim to personal wellness research capabilities. Check out their website for further exploration of their offerings.