Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by a parasite transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. According to WHO, there were an estimated 229 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2019, and 409,000 deaths from the disease.

Most malaria deaths occur in children under the age of 5, and in sub-Saharan Africa. While there are numerous ways to prevent and treat malaria, recent research has shown that the balance of bacteria in a person’s gut can play a significant role in protecting against the disease.

The Importance of Gut Bacteria

The human gut is home to trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiome.

These bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being, as they help to break down food, produce essential nutrients, and interact with our immune system. In recent years, researchers have discovered that the composition of the gut microbiome can also affect our susceptibility to various diseases, including malaria.

Gut Bacteria and Malaria

Several studies have shown that people with a more diverse and abundant gut microbiome are less likely to contract malaria.

One study, published in the journal Science, found that mice that were given antibiotics to suppress their gut bacteria were more susceptible to malaria infection than mice with intact gut microbiomes. This suggests that certain species of bacteria in the gut may help to protect against the disease.

Another study, published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, found that children in Mali who had a greater abundance of a particular type of gut bacteria called Prevotella were less likely to contract malaria.

Prevotella is known to be involved in immune system function, and its presence in the gut may help to activate immune cells that can fight off malaria parasites.

How to Promote a Healthy Gut Microbiome

Given the importance of gut bacteria in protecting against malaria, it’s important to take steps to promote a healthy gut microbiome. Here are some ways to do so:.

Eat a varied diet

Eating a diet that includes a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help to promote a diverse gut microbiome.

This is because different types of bacteria thrive on different types of fiber and nutrients found in these foods.

Take probiotics

Probiotics are supplements that contain live beneficial bacteria. Taking probiotics may help to boost the diversity and abundance of healthy bacteria in your gut.

Look for probiotic supplements that contain strains of bacteria known to be beneficial for gut health, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

Avoid antibiotics where possible

Antibiotics can be life-saving in certain situations, but they also have the potential to disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut.

Avoid taking antibiotics unnecessarily, and always follow your doctor’s instructions when you do need to take them.

Conclusion

Malaria is a serious disease that can have devastating consequences, particularly for young children and people living in sub-Saharan Africa.

While there are numerous ways to prevent and treat malaria, recent research suggests that promoting a healthy gut microbiome may also help to reduce the risk of contracting the disease. By eating a varied diet, taking probiotics, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, you can help to support a diverse and abundant population of beneficial gut bacteria that may help to protect your health.