The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in human health, influencing various physiological processes and overall well-being. Firstly, we explore dietary components such as prebiotics, probiotics, and fermented foods, which can modulate the composition and diversity of gut microbiota, thereby promoting a balanced microbial community. Additionally, lifestyle factors including exercise, stress management, and sleep patterns are discussed for their significant influence on gut microbiome stability and functionality. Dietary polyphenols have the ability to alter the make-up and activities of gut flora, which in turn affects immunity, inflammation, and gut metabolism. Numerous methods have been developed to increase the solubility, transport, and targeted administration of dietary polyphenols throughout the gastrointestinal tract in order to enhance their bioavailability. While further investigation is necessary, particularly in the form of translational and clinical trials, new developments in biotechnology present encouraging opportunities to use dietary polyphenols to influence the gut microbiota in dysbiosis-related illnesses. This overview provides insights into the dynamic relationship between factors affecting the gut microbiome's fundamental characteristics, the impact of diet on gut microbial ecology, the relationship between infectious diseases and the gut microbiota, and the potential of dietary polyphenols in controlling the gut microbiome. It underscores the importance of fostering a symbiotic microbial ecosystem for overall well-being.
Keywords: Gut microbiome, Prebiotics, Probiotics, Fermented foods, Dietary polyphenols, Dysbiosis-related illnesses.