Part Four of the Fibre Series In the previous parts of this series, we explored how fibre feeds the gut microbiome and how microbial fermentation produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). We examined the mechanisms by which dietary structure is translated into metabolic signals within the body. In this final section, we shift from mechanism to outcome. Here , the focus is metabolic health: how fibre influences blood glucose regulation, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol metabo

Part Three of the Fibre Series Welcome back to The Fibre Series. Last week, we explored fibre and the gut microbiome, looking at how different types of fibre feed distinct microbial communities and help shape this complex ecosystem. This week, we’re taking a deeper dive into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), small but powerful molecules that translate fibre intake into signals affecting metabolism, immunity, and hormonal regulation [1-3]. SCFAs are the primary biochemical link

You unwrap a chocolate bar and see it contains 500 kilocalories (kcal). A quick search tells you that burning off those calories means running for 45 to 60 minutes, walking briskly for 90 minutes, or doing an intense gym session. At first glance, this seems straightforward: eat the chocolate, then burn the calories through exercise to maintain balance. But human metabolism is far more complex than a simple math equation on a treadmill. The number “500 kcal” itself is an estim

Part Two of the Fibre Series Welcome back to The Fibre Series. Last week, we explored the basics of fibre, what it is, its molecular structure, and why diversity matters. This week, we’re taking a deeper dive into the gut microbiome, the complex ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms in your digestive tract and how fibre shapes it. The gut microbiome is a dynamic, metabolically active community composed of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. These microbes play a crucial

When we look at micronutrients from foods or supplements, we often focus on the quantity listed on the label. However, arguably the most important aspect isn’t just how much you consume, it’s how much your body actually absorbs and utilises. This comes down to bioavailability, a concept that is crucial for both nutritional science and product development [1]. Understanding Bioavailability Bioavailability is the proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed from the digestive trac