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Postbiotics

Meaning

Postbiotics are defined as the bioactive compounds produced by the microbial fermentation of prebiotic fibers within the gut lumen, distinct from the live probiotics themselves. These metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, exert direct positive effects on host physiology. They are critical mediators in the gut-brain and gut-hormone axis signaling pathways.