Precision Nutrition Recommendations Generated by Metataxonomic Microbiome Testing Improve Food Group Choices and Intestinal Health Indicators in an Obese Population in Colombia

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Overview

This study evaluated whether personalized dietary recommendations based on gut microbiome testing can improve intestinal health and food choices in adults with obesity in the region of Antioquia, Colombia. Fifty participants were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. Outcomes included gut microbiome composition, blood biomarkers, weight, physical activity frequency, and dietary adherence over 12 weeks

The study investigated the effects of precision nutrition recommendations on gut microbiota diversity and metabolic health in obese adults. Fifty participants (BMI ≥30) affiliated with Comfama healthcare in Antioquia, Colombia, were randomized into an intervention group (n=25) receiving a 12-week diet plan designed to improve microbial diversity and metabolic health, and a control group (n=25). The intervention emphasized increased fiber intake, fermented foods, reduced sugar and saturated fats, and a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Probiotic or prebiotic supplements were included in selected cases. Outcomes were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks and included gut microbiota diversity via 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3-V4 region), blood biomarkers (HbA1c, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, glucose), anthropometric data, dietary adherence, physical activity, and psychological measures. Significant improvements in microbial diversity and intestinal health indicators were observed in the intervention group.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

PREVENTION

Masking

SINGLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Obesity & Overweight

Interventions

Personalized dietary recommendationsOTHER

Experimental: Personalized dietary intervention (n=25) Participants receive personalized dietary recommendations intended to improve gut microbiota diversity and metabolic health. Recommendations include increased dietary fiber intake, incorporation of fermented foods, reduced intake of added sugars and saturated fats, and increased consumption and variety of fruits and vegetables. Optional probiotic or prebiotic supplementation may be recommended. Adherence is monitored through periodic online questionnaires and regular phone or text message follow-ups. Precise nutrient intake and supplement dosages are not strictly quantified. Behavioral: Personalized dietary recommendations Individualized dietary guidance designed to promote gut microbiota diversity and metabolic health through increased fiber intake, fermented foods, reduced added sugars and saturated fats, and greater variety of fruits and vegetables. Optional probiotic or prebiotic supplementation may be included.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 23 YearsMax age: 65 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Affiliation with Comfama healthcare provider * Age between 23 and 65 years * Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² * Residence in Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia * Willingness and ability to participate in the study for 12 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy or lactation * History of bariatric surgery * Diagnosed mental health conditions * Use of specific medications (e.g., antidepressants, antibiotics) * Participation in a structured nutritional plan * Planned extended travel within the next 9 months

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Change in gut microbiota diversity (Shannon Index)

Change in gut microbiota diversity assessed using the Shannon Diversity Index via 16S rRNA sequencing (V3-V4 region).

Time frame: Baseline and up to 3 months

Secondary Outcomes

Change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)

Change in HbA1c levels measured in blood samples.

Time frame: Baseline and up to 3 months

Change in HDL cholesterol

Change in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels measured in blood samples.

Time frame: Baseline and up to 12 weeks

Change in LDL cholesterol

Change in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels measured in blood samples.