Show Notes
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—and they're one of the most important pieces of gut health that I don't think we talk about enough. In this episode, I'm breaking down the three primary short-chain fatty acids—butyrate, acetate, and propionate—and explaining how they influence your gut barrier, immune system, inflammation, metabolic health, and even the pH of your colon.
We'll also talk about why butyrate is so important for the cells lining your colon, how SCFAs can help create an environment that supports a healthier microbial balance, and what can happen when we're missing important SCFA-producing bacteria.
Most importantly, I'm showing you how to actually support SCFA production through food.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Gut bacteria ferment certain fibers to produce short-chain fatty acids: butyrate, acetate, and propionate. Butyrate provides fuel for cells lining the colon and supports a healthy gut barrier. SCFAs help regulate immune activity and inflammatory signaling. SCFA production can lower colon pH, helping shape which microbes thrive in the gut. Fermentable fibers + resistant starches provide the raw materials gut microbes use to make SCFAs.
LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here. Listen to Episode 3 - Leaky Gut 101: The What, the Why, and How to Fix It Listen to Episode 84 - Why Most SIBO Protocols Fail Listen to Episode 89 - Eating Healthier and Feeling MORE Bloated? Here's Why
CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website
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