Effects of Unconventional Work and Shift Work on the Human Gut Microbiota and the Potential of Probiotics to Restore Dysbiosis

Abstract

The work environment is a factor that can significantly influence the composition and functionality of the gut microbiota of workers, in many cases leading to gut dysbiosis that will result in serious health problems. The aim of this paper was to provide a compilation of the different studies that have examined the influence of jobs with unconventional work schedules and environments on the gut microbiota of workers performing such work. As a possible solution, probiotic supplements, via modulation of the gut microbiota, can moderate the effects of sleep disturbance on the immune system, as well as restore the dysbiosis produced. Rotating shift work has been found to be associated with an increase in the risk of various metabolic diseases, such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Sleep disturbance or lack of sleep due to night work is also associated with metabolic diseases. In addition, sleep disturbance induces a stress response, both physiologically and psychologically, and disrupts the healthy functioning of the gut microbiota, thus triggering an inflammatory state. Other workers, including military, healthcare, or metallurgy workers, as well as livestock farmers or long-travel seamen, work in environments and schedules that can significantly affect their gut microbiota.

Circadian Rhythm Perturbation Aggravates Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

“…This disparity underlines the role of the circadian rhythm in the composition of the microbiome, and, moreover, it may reflect the additional influence of the nychthemeral changes, especially in DSS and DSS inverted circadian rhythm, compared to the group with colitis and normal exposure to light. Our findings endorse other those of studies concerning the role of normal light cycles in the composition and maintenance of the GM [ 28 ]. These diversity changes may have important functional relevance.…”

“…Intriguingly, sleep disturbance was shown to be associated with immune deregulation, inflammation [25] and an increase in intestinal permeability [26]. These findings were supported by observational human and experimental animal studies [27,28].…”

“…Nonetheless, the robustness of our observed dysbiosis in the murine model lays the groundwork for future studies that explore the applicability of these insights in human contexts. This work guides future directions for research and clinical applications, emphasizing the possible need for probiotic interventions in circadian-disrupted individuals suffering from IBD [ 28 ].…”

Circadian Rhythm Perturbation Aggravates Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

“…This dispa underlines the role of the circadian rhythm in the composition of the microbiome, moreover, it may reflect the additional influence of the nychthemeral changes, espec in DSS and DSS inverted circadian rhythm, compared to the group with colitis and nor exposure to light. Our findings endorse other those of studies concerning the role of mal light cycles in the composition and maintenance of the GM [28]. These diver changes may have important functional relevance.…”

Prevalence and bidirectional association of sleep quality and gut health among Chinese midwives: a large population, multi-center cross-sectional study

“…Consistent with previous studies ( 7 , 46 ), shift work has been linked to changes in both gut health and sleep quality. These associations are believed to be influenced by disruptions in circadian rhythms, alterations in eating habits, and increased stress levels commonly experienced by those working shifts.…”