Fermentation and Microbial Metabolites

SCFAs are produced through colonic fermentation and support colonocyte energy, gut lining integrity, immune regulation, brain health, and mitochondrial function. Hydrogen sulfide supports colonocyte and mitochondrial function at normal endogenous levels. Saccharolytic fermentation should occur mainly in the colon. Excess colonic protein fermentation produces pro-inflammatory byproducts. Elevated hydrogen sulfide from sulfur-reducing bacteria can drive chronic inflammatory gut disease. Long-term elimination of fermentable carbohydrates depletes the colonic ecosystem.