INCORPORATING almonds into the diet can significantly improve gut microbiota composition, enhance metabolic health, and reduce inflammation, according to new research.
In a randomized, crossover-controlled feeding trial, 15 adults with overweight or obesity followed two dietary interventions: a 4-week average American diet (AAD) and an isocaloric diet supplemented with 42.5 grams of almonds daily (ALD). The ALD intervention led to notable increases in beneficial gut microbes, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and a reduction in opportunistic pathogens, promoting a healthier gut environment.
Additionally, almond consumption elevated health-beneficial monosaccharides and enhanced bacterial amino acid utilization, contributing to improved microbial balance. The study also observed a ketosis-like effect, reduced inflammation, and better regulation of satiety hormones associated with the ALD.
These findings suggest that incorporating almonds into the diet can positively influence gut microbiota and metabolic health, offering a simple dietary strategy to mitigate obesity-related gut imbalances.
Reference: Park G et al. Almond snacking modulates gut microbiome and metabolome in association with improved cardiometabolic and inflammatory markers. NPJ Sci Food. 2025 Mar 20;9(1):35. doi: 10.1038/s41538-025-00403-0.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
