This systematic review examines the relationship between dietary patterns, gut microbiota composition, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. It analyzes 19 studies, including 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two self-controlled trials, assessing changes in gut microbiota in response to plant-rich, restrictive, and polyphenol-rich diets. The findings show that plant-based diets increase butyrate-producing bacteria like Faecalibacterium, while restrictive diets influence Bacteroides populations. Polyphenol-rich diets affect Ruminococcaceae UCG 005 and Alistipes. Plant-rich diets significantly reduce total cholesterol, while restrictive diets lower triglycerides. The study suggests that dietary interventions targeting the gut microbiota could serve as an effective strategy for CVD prevention.
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