Possible metabolic consequences of fermentation in the colon for humans
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Updated: Nov 9, 2026

Techniques for the Evolution of Robust Pentose-fermenting Yeast for Bioconversion of Lignocellulose to Ethanol
Published on: October 24, 2016
1Department of Dietetics, Potchefstroom University, South Africa.
Abstract:
We postulate that the short chain fatty acids, produced in the large gut by the microbial fermentation of dietary fiber, improve glucose tolerance and inhibit hepatic cholesterol and fibrinogen synthesis, probably by preventing an increase in serum levels of free fatty acids, and by improving insulin sensitivity. Since hypercholesterolemia, hyperfibrinogenemia and glucose intolerance are important risk factors for coronary heart disease, this could serve as a basis for recommendations that Western populations at risk should increase their dietary intake of substrates for short chain fatty acids.
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