Prevotella

Prevotella is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria that is abundant in the human gastrointestinal tract, particularly in individuals consuming a fiber-rich, plant-based diet. It plays a crucial role in the fermentation of carbohydrates and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are important for colon health and immune function. Prevotella species are associated with a diverse microbiome and have been linked to positive effects on glucose metabolism and anti-inflammatory processes, possibly reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.¹

Role of Prevotella in human health

Digestive Health and Fermentation: Prevotella is adept at breaking down complex carbohydrates and fibers that are typically found in a plant-based diet. This process results in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are crucial for maintaining colon health and regulating host energy metabolism.²
Immune System Modulation: SCFAs produced by Prevotella can help modulate the immune system by promoting the development of regulatory T cells and reducing inflammatory responses, which is beneficial for preventing inflammatory diseases.³
Influence on Metabolic Health: Research suggests that Prevotella is associated with improved glucose metabolism and may affect fat storage, thus impacting conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome.⁴
Relationship with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Some studies suggest a link between Prevotella and the development of rheumatoid arthritis, with certain species potentially triggering immune responses that could exacerbate this condition.⁵
Potential Impact on Cardiovascular Health: Emerging evidence indicates that Prevotella may influence cardiovascular health through its metabolic byproducts, although the exact mechanisms and outcomes are still under investigation.⁶

Best sources of Prevotella

Prevotella, a genus of bacteria, is not directly acquired from external sources like food or supplements but is part of the natural microbiota of the human gut. The composition and abundance of Prevotella in the gut microbiome can be influenced by dietary habits, particularly the intake of carbohydrates and fibers. Here are dietary sources that can help increase or maintain Prevotella levels in the gut:

High-Fiber Plant-Based Foods: Prevotella thrives on a diet rich in polysaccharides and fibers. People with a high intake of whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables tend to have higher levels of Prevotella.⁷
Complex Carbohydrates: Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as oats, barley, whole grains, and legumes, provide the necessary substrates (such as resistant starch) that Prevotella can ferment.
Non-Digestible Polysaccharides: Foods that contain non-digestible polysaccharides like inulin and oligosaccharides (found in onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, and bananas) are excellent for promoting the growth of Prevotella.
Fermented Foods: While not direct sources of Prevotella, fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and other fermented vegetables create an acidic environment in the gut that can support the growth of various beneficial bacteria, including Prevotella.

Where to find Prevotella in the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test

You will find your Prevotella score in the “Acetate” section of the “Postbiotics” report in your Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test results.

Synonyms: Xylanibacter Ueki et al. 2006.

Prevotella is typically found alongside other genera within the Prevotellaceae family, such as:

Alloprevotella
Paraprevotella

These genera are often associated with the mucosal surfaces of humans and other mammals, particularly in anoxic environments like the gastrointestinal tract, where they contribute to the breakdown of proteins and carbohydrates. This breakdown is crucial for the host’s digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Important disclaimer

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Handbook is an educational resource built to translate complex science into plain English. The information provided on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Always check with your GP for interactions with medications/health conditions before changing your diet or starting to take food supplements.

References

1
Larsen, N., et al. (2010). Gut microbiota in human adults with type 2 diabetes differs from non-diabetic adults. PLoS One, 5(2), e9085. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0009085.
2
De Filippo, C., et al. (2010). Impact of diet in shaping gut microbiota revealed by a comparative study in children from Europe and rural Africa. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 107(33), 14691-14696. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1005963107.
3
Arumugam, M., et al. (2011). Enterotypes of the human gut microbiome. Nature, 473(7346), 174-180. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature09944.
4
Kovatcheva-Datchary, P., et al. (2015). Dietary fiber-induced improvement in glucose metabolism is associated with increased abundance of Prevotella. Cell Metabolism, 22(6), 971-982. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2015.10.001.
5
Scher, J. U., et al. (2013). Expansion of intestinal Prevotella copri correlates with enhanced susceptibility to arthritis. eLife, 2, e01202. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01202.
6
Wang, Z., et al. (2011). Gut flora metabolism of phosphatidylcholine promotes cardiovascular disease. Nature, 472(7341), 57-63. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature09922.
7
Wu, G. D., Chen, J., Hoffmann, C., Bittinger, K., Chen, Y. Y., Keilbaugh, S. A., Bewtra, M., Knights, D., Walters, W. A., Knight, R., Sinha, R., Gilroy, E., Gupta, K., Baldassano, R., Nessel, L., Li, H., Bushman, F. D., & Lewis, J. D. (2011). Linking long-term dietary patterns with gut microbial enterotypes. Science, 334(6052), 105-108. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1208344.