There has been a trend of substituting whole fruits with juice, particularly among young children. Moreover, many health and wellness influencers promote so-called "juice cleanses", making them look like the ultimate health routine. But, a new study has found that juices negatively affect gut and oral bacteria and potentially lead to long-term health consequences. Gut microbiota—the collection of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that live in our intestines—plays a pivotal role in maintaining our health and wellness. What Was The Study About?For the study, one group of healthy adults only drank juice, another consumed juice with whole foods, and a third group ate only plant-based food. The researchers then analyzed bacterial changes in people from all three groups using saliva, cheek swabs, and stool samples before, during, and after the experiment. They found that people who drank only juice had a reduction in beneficial Firmicutes bacteria while inflammation-linked Proteobacteria rose. Bacteria linked to gut permeability also rose. At the end of the study, the researchers concluded that juicing alone disrupted the gut microbiome. The findings are published in the journal Nutrients. "Most people think of juicing as a healthy cleanse, but this study offers a reality check," said senior study author Dr Melinda Ring, director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a Northwestern Medicine physician. "Consuming large amounts of juice with little fibre may lead to microbiome imbalances that could have negative consequences, such as inflammation and reduced gut health," Ring explained in the conclusion of the research. ALSO READ: This Is The Healthiest Type Of Milk And No It Is Not Cow MilkJuice Eliminates Fibres And It Is ImportantRing reports that juicing strips away much of the fibre in whole fruits and vegetables. Fibre is an important component found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. It serves as the primary energy source for beneficial gut bacteria, playing a vital role in digestive health. Despite its importance, less than 5 per cent of people in the US consume the recommended 25–30 grams of fibre per day. Fibre also helps slow down the absorption of sugar, leading to more stable blood sugar levels. It also lowers cholesterol and lessen the risk of heart disease and stroke. Researchers said that the study highlights how quickly dietary choices can influence health-related bacterial populations. The oral microbiome appears to be a rapid barometer of dietary impact. Want To Boost Gut Bacteria? Try ProbioticsProbiotics are a great way to protect and even boost your gut bacteria. These are live beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health. Foods like yoghurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut can help balance the gut microbiota and support immune function. It can also add new probiotic strains to the gut microbiome. A 2018 study noted that exclusion of certain food items could also help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. These include refined sugars, grains and pulses, alcohol, caffeine and dairy.ALSO READ: Patrick Mahomes's Favourite Superbowl Snack Has This One Harmful Ingredient