Exploration du lien entre la consommation d'aliments ultra-transformés, le microbiote intestinal et les composés volatils dans l'haleine : Analyse des données MICROBoost

Details

Supervisors

Delzenne, Nathalie M. ; Lengele, Laetitia

Faculty

Faculté de pharmacie et des sciences biomédicales

Degree label

Master [60] en sciences biomédicales

Abstract

enThe consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), classified under NOVA group 4, is rapidly increasing and raises growing public health concerns. Several studies suggest an association between UPF intake and various metabolic disorders, potentially mediated by alterations in the gut microbiota. This thesis aims to explore the relationship between UPF consumption and the composition of exhaled air, considered as an indirect marker of the intestinal microbiota. The analysis is based on data from 20 healthy adults who participated in the MB1 clinical study of the MICROBoost project. Dietary intake was assessed using the ASA24 questionnaire over three non-consecutive days and categorized according to the NOVA classification. Hydrogen (H₂) production was measured in fasting conditions using the Lactotest, and breath volatile compounds were analyzed using selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS). Mixed models were used to evaluate associations between nutrient intake, H₂ production, and UPF consumption, both overall and within specific UPF subcategories. A principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted to explore the composition of exhaled air. The results show a decrease in fiber intake and an increase in sugar and sodium intake among the highest UPF consumers. No significant association was found between overall UPF intake and exhaled H₂ production, but a significant decrease in H₂ was observed in relation to high intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. The analysis of the volatolome did not reveal any specific metabolic signature associated with UPF consumption. Further analysis of fecal microbiota data will help clarify the underlying mechanisms. This work highlights the relevance of an integrated approach combining nutritional, microbial, and volatile data to better understand the impact of ultra-processed foods on intestinal and metabolic health. These preliminary findings should be confirmed in studies involving larger and more heterogeneous populations.