Hormonal
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut microbiota fermentation act as signaling molecules that regulate host energy metabolism, including stimulating leptin production, inhibiting gut motility via peptide YY, and regulating lipoprotein lipase activity through the suppression of fasting-induced adipocyte factor (Fiaf).
The byproducts of your gut bacteria (SCFAs) send signals to your brain and fat cells that regulate hunger and fat storage. Eating fiber-rich foods promotes the production of these SCFAs, which may help regulate appetite and fat deposition through complex hormonal pathways. This suggests that dietary fiber is not just about digestion but about hormonal signaling.
SCFAs also act as signaling molecules that interact with the G-protein-coupled receptors, Gpr41 and Gpr43... Following Gpr41 activation, SCFAs stimulate leptin expression, which suppresses appetite... Gut microbes also regulate energy metabolism by reducing the expression of fasting-induced adipocyte factor (Fiaf) from gut epithelial cells. Suppressed Fiaf release results in the degradation of lipoproteins and deposition of free fatty acids in adipose tissues.
Why this rating
The paper cites specific studies (Backhed et al, Samuel et al, Xiong et al) detailing these molecular mechanisms in mouse models, providing strong mechanistic evidence.
Source
Effects of Gut Microbes on Nutrient Absorption and Energy Regulation
Rosa Krajmalnik‐Brown et al. · Nutrition in Clinical Practice · 2012
DOI 10.1177/0884533611436116
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