Crickets?! Not Your Typical Snack
For some, the idea of munching on crickets for your mid-day snack doesn’t sound so appealing. But what if we told you that this insect consumption was not only a credible protein and fiber source, but could improve gut inflammation? A recent study published in Scientific Report evaluated the effects of consuming 25 g of whole cricket powder on the gut microbiota, while assessing safety and tolerability. The results showed a decrease of inflammatory markers, suggesting consumption of these insects may improve gut health and reduce inflammation. Study participants demonstrated an increase in healthy gut microbiota, suggesting crickets could have a prebiotic effect. Are crickets the new miracle food for digestive disorders? Not so fast, say the researchers. More studies on this topic are required, but this study speaks to the possible benefits of insect consumption on gut health.
Read more about the idea of crickets helping to solve world food shortages in NBC news and Forbes articles:
- https://www.nbcnews.com/mach/environment/how-eating-crickets-could-help-save-planet-n721416
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexknapp/2018/01/30/farming-the-next-big-food-source-crickets/#31ff42ef1168
Interested in learning more about other pre and probiotic foods sources and the effects on gut health? We promise we won’t make you eat crickets! Schedule an appointment with our registered dietitian online at www.compgihealth.com or call today at 224-407-4400.
Source: https://www.healio.com/gastroenterology/nutrition/news/online/%7B4b5132fc-e68a-4f78-9909-32153ea14d53%7D/qa-eating-crickets-may-improve-gut-health