We are all aware that egg, chicken and beans are good sources of protein. According to a report, “Crickets and the little bugs are also good for your gut”. Yes, it is true and a research has proved it!
During a research by the University of Wisconsin, Madison a study was conducted and was published in the journal Scientific Reports. This report determines that how consumption of insects that is consist of vitamins, minerals and healthy fats could be good for our body.
For this study they, examined 20 people between the age of 18 and 48 for almost 6 weeks. In the initial two weeks the group ate a controlled breakfast containing 25 grams of powdered crickets in muffins and shakes. Then, for the following two weeks they started eating normally and finally on the last two weeks they ate a proper normal diet.
During the whole trial, blood samples were collected by the scientists and were tested for enzymes and blood glucose related with liver function. Stool samples were also tested for inflammatory chemicals related with the gastrointestinal tract.
After going through the whole report, the scientists said that none of the participants report any noteworthy gastrointestinal changes or any sort of side effects. The researchers also found that there are no changes to overall microbial composition or changes in terms of gut inflammation.
However, the researchers did notice an increase in a metabolic enzyme related to gut health and a decline in an inflammatory protein in the blood related to depression and cancer called TNF-alpha.
Furthermore, the researchers noticed an uptick in the copiousness of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium animalis, a strain associated to upgraded gastrointestinal function.
A statement given by co-author Tiffany Weir says, “This study is important because insects symbolize a novel element in Western diets and their health effects in human body haven’t really been studied.” “With what we now are aware about the gut microbiota and its connection to human health, it’s important to establish how a novel food might affect gut microbial populations. We found that consumption of cricket may actually provide benefits beyond nutrition.”
The researchers are now holding a hope to continue their investigations in order to promote insects as a more conventional food option for people in the United States. This research will not only affect people in US, but people all round the world. As per them, more than 2 billion human beings around the world, that includes Africa and Thailand, eat bugs on regular basis.
Lead author Valerie Stull said, “Food is very tied to culture, and 20 or 30 years ago, no one in the U.S. was eating sushi because according to us it was disgusting.” “But now you eat it and can easily get it at a gas station in Nebraska.”
Those who eat insects have got a new beneficial wile to try various dishes, but don’t forget to have crickets as they are the most beneficial of all.