Kmeid, Rita ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4042-9612, Loveday, Heather ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2259-8149 and Wilson, Jennie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4713-9662 (2025) Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome: a mixed methods exploration of the knowledge, health beliefs and lifestyle choices of Lebanese diaspora in the UK, USA and Lebanon. In: UWL Doctoral Conference 2024, July 2024, London, UK.

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Abstract

Background: Scientific research suggests that there is a balanced relationship between human health and microbial communities known as the gut microbiome. If this balance is disturbed the body will be more susceptible to long term conditions (LTC’s) such as cardiovascular or gastrointestinal diseases, cancer and mental illnesses. In Lebanon, LTC’s are a major public health issue and a leading cause of mortality due to risk factors including socio-economic status, stress, dietary choices, physical activity and antibiotic misuse. Aim: This study will investigate what the Lebanese communities know about maintaining a healthy gut and its relationship to LTC’s.
Method: Mixed methods were used to examine experiences, attitudes, and perspectives in using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and Capability, Opportunity, Motivation Behaviour Model (COM-B). This model was used to synthesise the findings and create a framework for the next phase of this study. Individual interviews were conducted with 24 Lebanese participants living in the UK, USA and Lebanon. Results: Based on the COM-B model, five main themes and associated subthemes were identified including: 1) food brings us together (food habits and intake affecting gut health and health); 2) Influence of a culture (socio-cultural aspect and adaptations in a new country); 3) freedom of lifestyle choices (modifying behaviours and challenges based on culture); 4) roles of men and women (traditional roles affecting health beliefs and the impact on their children and family members); and 5) Knowledge and understanding (knowledge of gut microbiome and lifestyle habits causing LTC’s). Impact: This study will enhance prevention of LTC’s by spreading knowledge among the community on how to implement changes to their lifestyle habits that could potentially improve their gut health. It will provide direction for the next phase and the development of culturally sensitive interventions as the objectives of phases 2 and 3 of this study.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Speech)
Date Deposited:	10 Apr 2026
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/14853
Sustainable Development Goals:	Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being

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