The immune cells in the gut, called ILC3s, play a key role in protecting us from external threats. Australian researchers have just shown that a high-fat diet can quickly disrupt these cells and weaken our intestinal barrier.
Scientists at the WEHI Institute in Melbourne discovered that saturated fats (like those found in red meat or butter) rapidly reduce the production of an essential protein, IL-22.
IL-22 is a protein produced by the gut's defense cells. It helps repair damaged tissues and strengthens the barrier that protects us from bacteria and toxins. Without enough IL-22, the gut becomes more permeable, increasing the risk of inflammation.
In just two days, a diet high in saturated fats is enough to alter intestinal tissues in mice. These changes remain invisible to the naked eye but pave the way for chronic inflammatory diseases.
The researchers also noted that unsaturated fats (found in nuts or avocados) appear to have the opposite effect. They increase IL-22 production and strengthen the gut's defenses.
Saturated fats thus act as a double poison. They promote inflammation while simultaneously weakening the body's natural defenses. This makes the gut more vulnerable to external threats.
By restoring IL-22 production in mice, researchers were able to partially correct the problems caused by saturated fats. This approach opens the door to new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases.
The study, published in
Immunity, highlights the importance of choosing the right fats in our diet. It encourages prioritizing unsaturated fats to strengthen gut health. These findings could influence future dietary recommendations.
This research sheds light on how quickly our diet affects gut health. Scientists are continuing their investigations to better understand these mechanisms and verify their validity in humans.