Gut microbiota in obesity and undernutrition

Gut microbiota in obesity and undernutrition

Read the following review paper –
de Clercq NC, Groen AK, Romijn JA, & Nieuwdorp M, Gut microbiota in obesity and undernutrition. Adv Nutr.
2016; Nov 15; 7(6):1080-1089.
• You may read additional supplementary material to improve your understanding of the paper.
• Summarize the review article in your own words. Your essay must include the aim of the article and the
conclusions. As you read through the article, make an outline of the most important points discussed by the authors. Use these to formulate the body of your essay. At the end of your essay (after summarizing the conclusions of the paper), in a paragraph, include answers to the following questions:
o In your opinion, what is the most important factor that influences gut bacterial composition? Why?
o Besides, obesity and malnutrition, name one other health condition (not discussed in the paper) that is
linked to gut microbiota. Briefly describe the relationship between gut microbiota and this health
condition.
o Do you believe that there is enough evidence to recommend probiotic supplements to individuals?
Which group of individuals would you consider this supplement for, and why? What could be a
potential disadvantage of a probiotic supplement?
• The essay should be written in your own words and should not quote text from this or other articles.
• Essays must be typed in 12-point font, double-spaced. The length should not exceed 1.5 pages (1 inch
margins)
• Essays will be graded on the basis of critical thinking, application of nutrition knowledge and ability to
summarize nutrition concepts (20 points) as well as on the basis of grammar and composition (10 points).