The microbial composition in our intestines – known as the gut microbiome – is profoundly affected by diet. Experts advocate daily consumption of dietary fiber to support a balanced microbiome. The BaMiKo science communication project now unveils a series of videos aimed at promoting healthier lives through dietary fiber. The project, named after Ballaststoffe, Mikrobiom und Kochen (Dietary Fibers, Microbiology, and Cooking), is funded by Austrian Science Fund FWF and led by David Berry (CeMESS, University of Vienna),

Within this project, cooking students from the HBLFA Tirol have developed fiber-rich recipes, with six standout dishes selected and transformed into engaging cooking videos. These videos feature the students demonstrating delicious recipes and discussing the critical role of dietary fiber. Targeting young adults and beginner cooks, each video blends cooking techniques with scientific insights. The videos will be released twice a week on the Darm Kram online platform.

Why We Need More Dietary Fiber

While indigestible to humans, fibers from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are essential for gut bacteria, which, in turn, confer numerous health benefits, including protection against intestinal diseases. Recent studies link the gut microbiome to conditions like obesity, autism, diabetes, and even brain health, potentially affecting depression and Parkinson's disease.

Thus, nourishing ourselves and our gut bacteria with fibers is vital, as even a few fiber-deficient days can negatively impact health. Despite fiber’s ease of inclusion in daily diets, only 15% of adults meet the recommended 30 grams per day. Addressing this gap, BaMiKo educates young people on the vital link between fiber, gut health and overall wellness, highlighting how daily food choices impact health.

Cooking Videos for Young Audiences

As part of BaMiKo, microbiologist and nutritionist Annelieke Overbeeke (formerly CeMESS, University of Vienna) joined HBLFA Tirol’s “Aufbaulehrgang” students in Agriculture and Nutrition to co-create fiber-rich recipes. With support from communication experts from Open Science – Life Sciences in Dialogue, six recipes were professionally filmed by Zimtnow, producing engaging, youth-oriented cooking videos. Alongside the cooking instructions, the students and scientists share fascinating facts about fiber and gut health.

The videos aim to inspire young people and fiber enthusiasts alike, with new releases launching on Darm Kram (www.darmkram.at) beginning November 7. The series kicks off with fiber-rich hamburgers, followed by Wipptaler Nudeln, lentil wraps, Vorarlberger Riebel, vegetable lasagna and ends with muffins made from sauerkraut or blueberries.

Links

• The videos and recipes are available from November 7 at Darm Kram
  
• Interview with David Berry in Rudolphina Magazine (German)