Gut & Microbiome

Traditional African Diet Reduces Inflammation in Just 2 Weeks, Study Shows

A landmark clinical trial in Tanzania examined how traditional African diets affect health by switching participants between Western and traditional eating patterns. Researchers found that within just two weeks, people eating traditional African foods showed significant reductions in inflammation and improved immune function. The traditional diet featured 90 grams of fiber daily (versus 30 grams in Western diets), fermented foods like banana beer, ancient grains including millet and sorghum, legumes, and traditional vegetables. Participants switching to Western diets developed more inflammation and weaker immune responses to pathogens like tuberculosis and salmonella. The study demonstrates that dietary changes can rapidly alter immune system function, offering insights into why Western diets contribute to chronic diseases while traditional plant-based, fiber-rich diets may protect against inflammation-related conditions.