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SCFA Production

Meaning

SCFA Production refers to the vital biological process where the commensal bacteria residing in the large intestine anaerobically ferment undigested dietary fibers and resistant starches, resulting in the generation of Short-Chain Fatty Acids. The principal SCFAs produced are butyrate, acetate, and propionate, which are critical signaling molecules and energy substrates for the host. Robust SCFA production is a definitive marker of a healthy, functional gut microbiome.