If you were asked to name two of the biggest food and beverage trends of the past decade, there's a strong chance you'd reference the rise in the plant-based movement and the absolute dominance of gut-health boosting products.
What you might not know, is that dietitians and health experts are now looking at a potential link between these two major trends, with one proving good for the other. And to clarify, that’s a plant-based diet being good for gut health, rather than the other way around.
So, are we looking at a potential food and beverage super trend, with consumers switching to a plant based diet in order to improve gut health? And how could food and beverage manufacturers capitalise on this?
Is a plant-based diet good for gut health?
Plant-based diets have previously been linked to a wide range of health benefits, including weight loss, with researchers finding that a plant-based diet lowers cholesterol and fat consumption, and boosts fibre intake. And it's the increased intake in fibre, which has been associated with good gut health, that has led dietitians and health professionals to start looking further into the links between plant-based and improved gut health. So, how else could a plant-based diet help to improve gut health?
"A plant-based diet, rich in antioxidants, folate, and magnesium, supports a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can improve overall gut health and mental well-being by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Chris Dubberley, a gut health expert from personal care brand, Incontinence Shop.
Furthermore, there’s a growing belief that adoption of a plant-based diet could help to promote good mental health, through the connection between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the gut-brain axis.
"The diverse range of foods in a plant-based diet promotes a balanced gut microbiome. This balance encourages the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, the 'feel-good' hormone, which can improve mood,” says Dubberley. "The plant-based lifestyle's emphasis on mindful eating and holistic well-being can also contribute to improved gut health.”
What is the gut microbiome?
Each of us has trillions of microbes or bacteria living in our gut. These are collectively referred to as the gut microbiome. The two most common species of helpful bacteria found in our gut microbiome are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Maintaining a healthy balance between the helpful (good) bacteria and the unhelpful (bad) bacteria is fundamental in supporting a healthy digestive system, with the gut now understood to be central to health, containing more than 70% of our immune system.
The gut microbiome has been linked not just to gut health, but with the health of the entire body. The gut-brain axis or the communication between the gut and the brain is one fundamental function currently being researched by scientists and also gaining widespread recognition amongst consumers. The gut-skin axis and the gut-liver axis are two other connections which are beginning to be studied and understood. Furthermore, gut health has also been linked to the prevention of colorectal cancer and other chronic diseases.
Potential downsides to the plant-based diet
Despite the potential benefits of a plant-based diet, dietitians and health experts are quick to point out the potential pitfalls. Primarily, that it does increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies, as food groups are removed. And this could actually be detrimental to gut health.
“People on a plant-based diet should be mindful of potential nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, as these also help maintain gut health and prevent issues like brain fog and low mood,” says Dubberley.
It’s therefore important for those on a plant-based diet, and for those looking to make the move over to plant-based, to ensure they’re getting the right nutrients.
"Protein intake is important, not only for overall health but also for maintaining a healthy gut,” says Dubberley. “Those on a plant-based diet should have a variety of plant-based proteins, including legumes, tofu, brown rice, quinoa and nuts, to support their dietary needs.”
How can plant-based manufacturers benefit from the gut health trend?
This new positive connection between adopting a plant-based diet and good gut health offers a huge opportunity to plant-based food and beverage manufacturers. In particular, as plant-based brands have faced significant challenges over the past year. It opens the door for the plant-based industry to market towards the gut health space and capitalise on the success of both trends. In fact, as things begin to look up for the plant-based industry, this could help to further boost sales and prove a powerful weapon for plant-based manufacturers.
