Interaction Between Intestinal Bifidobacteria and Dietary Intake of B Vitamins Reduces Indicators of Insulin Resistance and Lipid Levels in Schoolchildren.

BACKGROUND

Metabolic alterations are commonly observed in obesity due to poor dietary habits, which impact nutrient absorption and the function of gut microbiota, including Bifidobacterium such as B. adolescentis, B. breve, and B. longum. Since these bacteria play a crucial role in regulating glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, we hypothesize that a high relative abundance (RA) of these species, combined with a high dietary intake of B vitamins, may reduce markers of insulin resistance and serum lipid levels.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study involving a sample of 1,118 children, including a subsample of 209 children aged 6-12 years. We collected anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary data. The RA of Bifidobacteria in fecal samples was analyzed using qPCR. Linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between the RA of Bifidobacteria and dietary B vitamin intake with indicators of insulin resistance and lipid levels.

RESULTS

No significant associations were found between the RA of Bifidobacteria or dietary vitamin B intake and metabolic markers individually. However, combined exposure analysis revealed significant associations between the presence of intestinal Bifidobacteria and dietary B vitamins intake with levels of glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment (that evaluates insulin resistance), total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low- and high-density lipoproteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the combined presence of intestinal Bifidobacteria and dietary vitamin B intake is closely related to alterations in insulin resistance markers and serum lipid levels. This discovery highlights the potential for developing combined interventions to improve therapeutic treatments, and to create or refine strategies for managing metabolic alterations in children.