Research

Micronutrients & recovery

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), particularly butyrate, produced by gut microbiota fermentation of fiber, have anti-inflammatory properties and improve insulin sensitivity, although their net effect in obesity is complex and context-dependent.

Increase intake of dietary fiber to promote the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by gut bacteria, which supports insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation. Start slowly to minimize digestive discomfort.

ModerateQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
SCFAs, which result from microbial degradation of fibers, have several beneficial effects on host metabolism... in diabetes a reduced SCFA production or uptake, in particular the anti-inflammatory acting butyrate, has been suggested.
Torsten P. M. Scheithauer et al. · Frontiers in Immunology · 2020

Why this rating

Evidence is mixed; some studies show benefit, others show increased production in obesity linked to weight gain.

Source

Gut Microbiota as a Trigger for Metabolic Inflammation in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Torsten P. M. Scheithauer et al. · Frontiers in Immunology · 2020

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