Research
Hormonal
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced by gut microbiota from flavonoid and fiber fermentation influence energy metabolism, glucose-insulin homeostasis, and inflammatory pathways, with effects mediated by G-protein-coupled receptors (GPR).
Support your gut microbiota with fiber and flavonoid-rich foods to promote the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). These byproducts help regulate blood sugar, energy expenditure, and inflammation.
ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Experimental studies suggest that microbial produced SCFA act as signaling molecules and can influence host energy metabolism, glucose-insulin homeostasis, production of endocrine hormones (eg, GLP-1 [glucagon-like peptide 1]), and inflammatory pathways.
Why this rating
Based on animal models and in vitro studies; human clinical data is less robust and shows conflicting results.
Source
Flavonoids, Dairy Foods, and Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health
Dariush Mozaffarian et al. · Circulation Research · 2018
DOI 10.1161/circresaha.117.309008
narrative_reviewCited 301×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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- Consumption of flavonoid-rich foods (cocoa, tea, berries) produces small but measurable improvements in blood pressure, endothelial function, and insulin resistance, mediated by enhanced nitric oxide bioavailability and AMPK activation.Good
- Dairy consumption has complex cardiometabolic effects that differ from isolated nutrient recommendations, with specific components like dairy fats and proteins offering potential benefits that contradict traditional low-fat dairy guidelines.Moderate
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