Health
Microgravity alters gut microbiome and slows digestion in astronauts, study finds
Researchers link microgravity to slowed digestion and microbial shifts, suggesting dietary adjustments could help space missions and bedridden patients.
The short version
- A study in Nature by University of Copenhagen researchers and NASA found that microgravity significantly slows human digestion.
- The delay causes gut microbes to ferment protein instead of carbohydrates, leading to constipation and other gastrointestinal issues in astronauts.
- Scientists recommend diets richer in slow-fermented carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and prebiotics to mitigate these effects during long spaceflights.
- NASA is reviewing the findings to evaluate potential dietary interventions for future missions, including potential voyages to Mars.
Key facts
- Researchers analyzed biological samples from 52 astronauts who spent months on the International Space Station to study gastrointestinal changes in microgravity.[CNET]
- Slower food transit in microgravity causes gut bacteria to deplete available carbohydrates early and switch to fermenting proteins, releasing specific metabolic markers into the bloodstream.[CNET]
- Researchers propose incorporating slow-fermented carbohydrates, fiber-rich foods like lentils and nuts, or prebiotic supplements into astronaut diets to improve gut motility.[CNET]
- Study authors noted the findings may also provide insights for managing chronic constipation in immobilized or bedridden patients on Earth.[CNET]
- NASA nutritional biochemistry officials stated they are reviewing the study's conclusions to determine if formal dietary recommendations are warranted.[CNET]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the specific blood molecules elevated during space missions directly affect human mental health, stress, or anxiety remains unconfirmed, though similar compounds have been linked to anxiety in animal models.[CNET]
- The efficacy of proposed dietary fiber adjustments and prebiotic supplementation protocols in preventing long-term spaceflight gastrointestinal issues has yet to be clinically tested in orbit.[CNET]