Projects - ETM (Evy) Maas PhD

• TAPIR: HealThy fAt, haPpy mIcRobiome

This project investigates the potential of dietary fats and oils to modulate the gut microbiome and improve human health. A consortium, including Wageningen University, UMCG, companies, and the Dutch Digestive Foundation, aims to explore how dietary lipids influence the microbiome, especially in the small intestine. Research suggests that certain intestinal bacteria can transform fats into molecules that impact immunity and metabolism. This project seeks to uncover microbiome-driven health benefits, enabling the food industry to reformulate products and helping consumers make healthier dietary choices to prevent diseases and reduce their impact.

• FITTER: dietary fiber to target adverse effects of cancer treatment

People with cancer often suffer from side-effects of treatment that impact their quality of life. FITTER will evaluate whether consumption of an adequate amount of dietary fiber could help reducing these side-effects. By studying which fibers or fiber combinations are most potent in improving gut health and thereby reducing side-effects of treatment, FITTER will be able to further develop dietary advices and products that promote recovery after treatment.