Research
Hormonal
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut microbiota influence host energy homeostasis and adipose storage through multiple mechanisms including GPCR signaling and histone deacetylase inhibition.
Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) to boost SCFA production. This supports gut health and may help regulate energy balance and reduce inflammation.
ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
SCFAs influence host energy homeostasis and act as signal transduction molecules via G-protein coupled receptors such as free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFAR2), FFAR3, olfactory receptor 51E2 (OLFR78), and hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (GPR109A).
Why this rating
The paper reviews multiple studies showing SCFA effects, but notes the complexity and lack of clear clinical translation.
Source
Gut Microbiota: From Microorganisms to Metabolic Organ Influencing Obesity
Richard W. Stephens et al. · Obesity · 2018
DOI 10.1002/oby.22179
narrative_reviewCited 167×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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- Gut microbiota composition influences obesity risk through energy harvesting efficiency, specifically via the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.Moderate
- Dysbiosis and increased gut permeability (leaky gut) contribute to obesity through metabolic endotoxemia and low-grade inflammation.Moderate
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