DIETARY PATTERNS, GUT MICROBIOTA, AND GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH NEUROFIBROMATOSIS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Neurofibromatosis (enNF) is a multisystem genetic disease with neurological, cutaneous, and gastrointestinal manifestations that significantly affect individuals' quality of life. Symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, and reflux are frequently reported, but their relationship to modifiable factors, such as diet, remains under-researched. Recent studies show that dietary patterns directly influence gut health, modulating the microbiota, motility, and inflammatory status of the gastrointestinal tract. Functional nutrition emerges as a promising approach, capable of contributing to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and the reduction of gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with NF. Given this context, this literature review aimed to analyze, organize, and synthesize scientific evidence on the relationship between dietary patterns, gut microbiota, and gastrointestinal manifestations in individuals with NF, highlighting possible nutritional interventions. The findings indicate that targeted dietary strategies, such as increasing fiber, prebiotic, and probiotic intake, can promote microbial diversity and modulate inflammatory responses, promoting improved gastrointestinal well-being. This study contributes to the understanding of the importance of nutrition in symptom management in NF and provides insights for future research in functional nutrition applied to genetic diseases.