It is estimated that nearly 35% of the US population has metabolic syndrome1. Metabolic syndrome encompasses a cluster of disorders that increase risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.2 The GI tract is home to trillions of microorganisms that confer benefits to the host. Recent evidence has implicated alternations in gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity in the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome3,4. Maintenance of gut barrier function, regulation of immune response and lipogenesis are possible mechanisms through which the gut microbiome influences metabolic syndrome3-5. Diet can be used to modulate gut microbiota composition and function. Overall diet composition, macronutrient content and plant vs animal-based
