Abstract

The gut microbiota, an ecosystem teeming with trillions of microorganisms, is indispensable to human health, wielding profound influence over digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being. Recent research illuminates the intricate interplay between gut bacteria and these physiological processes. Microbes aid in the breakdown of dietary components, including complex carbohydrates and fibers, into absorbable nutrients, thus supporting efficient nutrient absorption. Moreover, they produce metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that influence energy balance by modulating fat storage and glucose metabolism. Crucially, alterations in gut microbiota composition have been linked to metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes, underscoring the therapeutic potential of interventions targeting microbiota. Harnessing this potential involves strategies ranging from probiotics and prebiotics to dietary modifications aimed at restoring or manipulating microbial communities to improve metabolic health. Understanding these mechanisms not only enhances our grasp of digestive physiology but also offers promising avenues for combating prevalent metabolic ailments through microbiota-centric therapies.