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A groundbreaking study has shown that adopting a diet inspired by the eating habits of non-industrialized societies can dramatically reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Researchers are now planning to share the diet’s recipes with the public to promote healthier living.
Chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease have surged in affluent countries like Ireland, largely due to industrialized diets—high in processed foods and low in fiber. The new study, published in Cell, reveals that the “NiMe” (Non-industrialized Microbiome Restore) diet offers significant metabolic and immunological improvements in just three weeks.
Key Findings:
In a controlled human trial, the NiMe diet led to:
- Weight loss
- A 17% decrease in bad cholesterol
- A 6% reduction in blood sugar levels
- A 14% drop in C-reactive Protein, an inflammation marker linked to heart disease
These benefits were tied to positive changes in the gut microbiome, the complex ecosystem of bacteria that influences digestion, immunity, and metabolism.
A Diet Rooted in Science
The research was led by Professor Jens Walter of University College Cork, in collaboration with an international team of scientists. Prof. Walter explained that industrialization has drastically altered the gut microbiome, increasing susceptibility to chronic diseases.
“To counter this, we developed a diet that mirrors traditional, non-industrialized dietary habits and leverages our understanding of diet-microbiome interactions,” he said.
The trial included the consumption of Lactobacillus reuteri, a beneficial bacterium common in rural Papua New Guineans but scarce in industrialized populations. The NiMe diet improved microbiome diversity, reduced harmful bacteria, and restored features damaged by industrialization.
What Makes the NiMe Diet Unique?
Inspired by traditional diets in rural Papua New Guinea, the NiMe diet emphasizes:
- Plant-based meals with vegetables, legumes, and whole foods
- Limited animal protein: one small serving of salmon, chicken, or pork daily
- No dairy, beef, or wheat, reflecting Papua New Guinean dietary patterns
- Low processed foods, avoiding sugar and saturated fats
- High fiber content, exceeding dietary recommendations with 22 grams per 1,000 calories
Remarkably, participants achieved weight loss and health benefits without reducing calorie intake.
Sharing the Benefits
The team behind the study aims to make the NiMe diet accessible. Recipes will be posted on the diet’s Instagram (@nimediet) and Facebook pages, and an online cookbook is in development.
“This study shows we can target the gut microbiome through specific diets to improve health and reduce disease risk,” said Prof. Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland.
Dr. Anissa Armet, a registered dietitian and co-author, added, “We’re committed to making these recipes freely available so everyone can improve their health by feeding their gut microbiome.”
Implications for the Future
The findings could inspire future dietary guidelines and the development of new food products that promote gut health. With its ability to reduce inflammation and improve cardiometabolic markers, the NiMe diet may become a key tool in combatting chronic diseases linked to industrialized diets.
Disclaimer: This article highlights research findings on a non-industrialized dietary approach and its health benefits. Always consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
For more information, refer to the study: Cardiometabolic benefits of a non-industrialized-type diet are linked to gut microbiome modulation, Cell (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.12.034.
