Scientists have been curious about how the bacteria in our gut might be connected to vitiligo, a condition that causes a loss of skin color. Previous studies hinted at a link, but it wasn't clear if the gut bacteria actually caused vitiligo or if there were other factors involved.

To get a clearer picture, researchers used a special method called Mendelian randomization and combined results from multiple studies. They found that some types of gut bacteria seem to protect against vitiligo, while others might increase the risk of developing it.

The study also looked at how our diet might affect these gut bacteria. They discovered that:
- Drinking alcohol can reduce some of the "good" bacteria
- Eating bread can decrease a type of bacteria that might protect against vitiligo
- Drinking red wine might lower levels of some "bad" bacteria
- Drinking tea might increase a type of bacteria linked to vitiligo
- Eating raw vegetables or salad can increase some bacteria associated with vitiligo

Eating whole grains, especially those high in fiber, boosts beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus/Enterococcus in the gut. Complex carbohydrates in these foods are fermented by gut microbes into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support immune function, help with respiratory health, prevent inflammation, and regulate metabolism.

A collagen-rich diet can protect skin from aging and speed up wound healing, while adding whey and pea proteins reduces harmful bacteria and increases beneficial microbes like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Probiotics, such as Bacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus, can prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing the gut, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health by restoring its barrier and reducing sensitivity.

In conclusion, this study provides stronger evidence that gut bacteria can influence whether someone develops new or worsens exhisting vitiligo lesions. The researchers suggest that changing what we eat might be a new way to minimize vitiligo by altering the balance of bacteria in our gut.

Based on: Identification of dietary factors that impact the gut microbiota associated with vitiligo: A Mendelian randomization study and meta-analysis

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