Dietary fiber derived short-chain fatty acids as a critical driver of the gut–bone axis in animal bone health: A review
Zeshan Zulfiqar, Shucheng Huang, Yinghua Shi
Abstract
Intestinal health, regulated by gut microbiota, is essential for optimal animal production performance and bone metabolism. Dietary fiber, a key modulator of gut microbiota, influences microbial composition and enhances the production of short-chain fatty acids, which in turn affect bone remodeling processes. This review examines the mechanistic links between dietary fiber, gut microbiota-derived metabolites, and bone health, highlighting their roles in mitigating oxidative stress, modulating immune responses, and regulating osteogenic and osteoclastic activities. By elucidating these interactions, we provide insights into the potential of dietary fiber as a nutritional strategy for improving bone integrity and managing bone-related disorders in animals.