Bug Diets? Researcher Suggests Eating Insects Can Improve Gut Health

Eating insects is not a common practice in many cultures, but research indicates that it could be a good source of nutrition and even improve gut health.

Phys.org tells us that Tiffany Weir, an associate professor in CSU's Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, co-wrote the paper with Valerie Stull of the University of Wisconsin. They pioneered human research on the effect of cricket consumption on gut microbiota.

Cricket Chocolate Patties

Previous research by the team led to the current study on how chitin in designer chocolate patties made from crickets could increase prebiotic effects in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

The researchers claimed this food contains twice as much protein as beef, twice as much iron as spinach, twice as much calcium as milk, and considerably more vitamin B12 than salmon. Consider that it is more affordable, abundant, and sustainable than other foods.

Although insect-based products have gained popularity due to their environmental friendliness, the study found that they also provide untapped and underappreciated nutritional benefits.

Health Benefits of Eating Insects

Did you know that approximately 2 billion people worldwide eat insects as part of their regular diet? It is a time-honored practice known as entomophagy, and a 2013 report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) sheds light on this fascinating phenomenon.

But why do people eat insects, you might wonder? Aside from their cultural significance, insects are also highly nutritious. These bugs are high in protein, healthy fats, iron, and calcium but low in carbs.

Insects are a dependable source of bioavailable animal protein, containing all essential amino acids required for human nutrition, particularly for those eating cereals and legumes.

They are also thought to provide unique benefits for the gut, such as reducing intestinal inflammation and encouraging healthy gut microbiota.

Examining the Impact of Entomophagy

Stull and Weir's research looks into the effects of eating insects on the gut microbiota, which is essential for nutrient metabolism, pathogen inhibition, and immune regulation.

Insects are high in protein and micronutrients, but unlike other animal-derived foods, they also have dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can influence gut microbiota.

The researchers discovered that insect fiber, specifically chitin and its derivatives, can alter gut microbiota, resulting in positive outcomes.

Insects also have favorable omega-3/omega-6 ratios, which can aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. However, there is a need for more human studies in this field, which must be addressed.

"Initial reports suggest several benefits from including insects in the diet, but more research-especially human intervention studies-is needed," Stull notes.

The study also highlights the significance of a healthy gut microbiome and its impact on overall health. Insects require fewer resources to raise than conventional livestock, making them a sustainable food source.

"Low-cost insect farming could help vulnerable communities meet their nutritional needs and improve food security, especially in contexts where entomophagy is already practiced," the paper said.

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