Iron Supplementation Influence on the Gut Microbiota and Probiotic Intake Effect in Iron Deficiency—A Literature-Based Review

Abstract

<jats:p>Iron deficiency in the human body is a global issue with an impact on more than two billion individuals worldwide. The most important functions ensured by adequate amounts of iron in the body are related to transport and storage of oxygen, electron transfer, mediation of oxidation-reduction reactions, synthesis of hormones, the replication of DNA, cell cycle restoration and control, fixation of nitrogen, and antioxidant effects. In the case of iron deficiency, even marginal insufficiencies may impair the proper functionality of the human body. On the other hand, an excess in iron concentration has a major impact on the gut microbiota composition. There are several non-genetic causes that lead to iron deficiencies, and thus, several approaches in their treatment. The most common methods are related to food fortifications and supplements. In this review, following a summary of iron metabolism and its health implications, we analyzed the scientific literature for the influence of iron fortification and supplementation on the gut microbiome and the effect of probiotics, prebiotics, and/or synbiotics in iron absorption and availability for the organism.</jats:p>

An Overview of Gut Microbiota and Colon Diseases with a Focus on Adenomatous Colon Polyps

“…Moreover, prebiotics can be helpful in reducing dermatitis [ 65 ], reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL) in the blood [ 66 ], stimulating the immunological system [ 67 ], increasing iron absorption [ 68 ], maintaining the correct value of intestinal pH [ 69 , 70 ], and alleviating the symptoms of peptic ulcers and vaginal mycosis [ 2 , 71 ]. Other effects of prebiotics such as inulin and oligofructose on human health have been described as being the prevention of carcinogenesis [ 72 , 73 ], the support of lactose intolerance [ 74 ], and the treatment of tooth decay [ 75 ].…”

The Impact of Low-Level Iron Supplements on the Faecal Microbiota of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Healthy Donors Using In Vitro Batch Cultures

“…There is a symbiotic relationship between gut microbes and the human host and furthermore a bi-directional relationship between the gut microbiota and luminal iron absorption [ 21 ]. Some carbohydrates and proteins that cannot be digested and absorbed by the host in the upper gastrointestinal tract can be fermented by microbes populating the colon to produce metabolites such as short chain fatty acids (SCFA) [ 22 ].…”

“…The majority of consumed iron is not absorbed; as such, it remains available and can have an impact on the gut microbial community [ 21 , 33 , 34 ]. In vitro batch cultures held under anaerobic, pH-controlled conditions provide a useful approach to studying gut microbial communities and to determine how they are influenced by the presence of different substrates and supplements.…”

Food Security during the Pandemic and the Importance of the Bioeconomy in the New Era

“…These issues are reflected by undernutrition, anorexia, and micronutrient deficiencies, as well as an overweight population, obesity, and diet-related noncommunicable diseases [29]. Consequently, nutritional deficiencies of high-quality macro-and micronutrients are strongly associated with a depressed immune function and increased susceptibility to infection [27,30]. Under the pressure of the pandemic, people have had to rethink how they procure and select food resources and should have been more aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy organism.…”