In new research published in Nature, researchers from the University of Chicago show how mice fed a Western-style diet are not able to rebuild a “healthy,” diverse gut microbiome following antibiotic treatment. These mice were also more susceptible to infection by pathogens like Salmonella. However, mice given food loosely mimicking a Mediterranean diet—high in plant-based fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—were able to quickly restore a healthy and resilient gut microbiome after antibiotics.