Dietary Fibre, Microbial Diversity, and Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Reviews synthesize how different fibre types influence gut microbiota composition and metabolite production linked to digestive and metabolic health.
How Fibre Shapes the Microbiome
Fermentable fibres provide substrates for microbial fermentation, supporting species that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These metabolites help maintain barrier function and modulate immune responses.
Key Findings
Diversity and Functional Outcomes
A review of fibre-microbiota interactions reported that diverse fibre intake correlates with increased microbial diversity, which may buffer against dysbiosis and support SCFA production.
Food Patterns and Personalized Responses
More recent evidence indicates that individual diet patterns and baseline microbiota influence how fibre interventions affect microbial composition, suggesting a role for personalized nutrition approaches.
What This Means & Limitations
The association between fibre intake, microbiome diversity, and SCFA production supports guidance to include varied plant-based fibres. However, the optimal types and amounts of fibre likely differ by individual and clinical context, and more controlled trials are needed to refine recommendations.