Publication Date
5-2025
School
School of Health Sciences
Major
Biology: Molecular Biology
Keywords
gut microbiome, obesity, food additives, dysbiosis
Disciplines
Biotechnology | Microbiology | Molecular, Genetic, and Biochemical Nutrition
Recommended Citation
Mankos, Olivia, "Antimicrobial Eats: How Food Additives are Contributing to Obesity via the Gut Microbiome" (2025). Senior Honors Theses. 1522.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/1522
Abstract
The typical modern diet is brimming with food additives used in food processing. Additives such as antibiotic residues, GMOs, pesticide residues, anti-caking agents, emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, colorants, flavor enhancers, and preservatives. Most of these additives seem to shift the gut microbiome towards more pro-inflammatory signals. When all these additives are considered as an amalgam, such as with the modern processed diet, the ramifications on the gut microbiome are concerning. Obesity, which is characterized by low-level chronic inflammation, is likely exacerbated by these food additives. Consequently, most of these additives should be avoided or banned for optimal health.
Included in
Biotechnology Commons, Microbiology Commons, Molecular, Genetic, and Biochemical Nutrition Commons
