Tag: Bacteroides fragilis

Research into the human gut microbiome has uncovered that *Bacteroides fragilis*, a common resident, possesses surprising therapeutic potential, prompting the question: **is Bacteroides fragilis a probiotic?** The answer is complex, as its classification depends heavily on the specific strain and its delicate, dualistic relationship with the host's health. Unlike familiar probiotic strains, certain non-toxigenic variants are emerging as candidates for next-generation, targeted therapies due to their powerful immunomodulatory effects.

Research has consistently shown a strong link between dietary habits and the composition of the gut microbiota, with soluble dietary fiber proven to significantly increase the abundance of the Bacteroides fragilis group. Discovering what foods increase Bacteroides fragilis can provide a roadmap to improving gut health and promoting the production of beneficial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).