Interplay Between Human Gut Microbiome Diversity and Metabolic Health: A Cross-Cultural Analysis

The human gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in maintaining metabolic health, yet its diversity is influenced by various cultural and dietary factors. This study explores the relationship between microbiome diversity and metabolic health across different populations. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis involving 1,200 participants from Germany, South Korea, and Lebanon. Gut microbiome samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, and metabolic health indicators such as BMI, blood glucose levels, and lipid profiles were assessed. Our findings reveal a significant variation in microbial diversity between populations, with German participants showing higher Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratios (p < 0.01), which correlated with higher BMI and glucose levels. In contrast, the Korean cohort exhibited increased diversity of beneficial Bifidobacterium species, correlating with improved lipid profiles (p < 0.05). Lebanese participants displayed a unique microbiome composition, with elevated levels of Prevotella spp., linked to dietary patterns rich in legumes and grains. These results underscore the importance of cultural dietary practices in shaping gut microbiome diversity and its subsequent impact on metabolic health. Our study highlights the potential for personalized dietary interventions to enhance metabolic health through microbiome modulation.