Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA) are the unsung heroes of the gut! These tiny little molecules are hardly discussed but have a major impact on our gut health, especially in the colon. It’s time to start talking about SCFA.

What are SCFA?

SCFAs are a postbiotic. When we eat fiber, we digest and absorb some of the nutrients. The rest is undigestible to humans. Our bacteria eat these fibers and then release SCFA as part of their fermentation process.

There are different types of SCFA, including butyrate, one of the most well-studied SCFA. Butyrate is naturally found in some foods or is made in the gut by our bacteria.

What are the Benefits of SCFA?

SCFA acids have a powerful effect on the gut and are a prime example of how symbiotic we are with our gut microbiome.

Inflammation

SCFAs are the primary source of fuel for our colon cells. SCFA molecules have been shown to help with inflammation in the gut and may even play a role in preventing colon cancer.

Gut Lining

SCFA can be used to help support the gut lining and decrease leaky gut. This also helps decrease inflammation.

Metabolic

Evidence suggests that SCFA can reduce the risk of Cardiovascular Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and even plays a role in cholesterol. metabolsim

Motility

SCFA can help some individuals with constipation and even diarrhea.

What Causes Low SCFA?

Low SCFA acids can be caused by the following:

• Low fiber intake
• Gut conditions causing constipation or diarrhea
• Inflammation in the gut
• Low beneficial gut bacteria
• Long-term antibiotic use

What Causes High SCFA?

SCFA may be high due to the following issues:

• Diarrhea
• High protein/low fiber intake
• Poor digestion
• Low polyphenol intake
• Metabolic imbalances

Want to know if your SCFA levels are high or low? A comprehensive stool test can tell us!

How to Support Normal SCFA Levels

Here are some simple ways to support normal SCFA levels:

• Eat a diverse amount of fiber
• Include foods rich in polyphenols, like berries, citrus fruits, onions, garlic, and vegetables
• Consume grass-fed ghee or dairy products containing naturally occurring butyrate
• Address bacterial imbalances in the gut
• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet

Everyone will have a different plan to balance SCFA depending on their levels, underlying root causes, and diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we should be focusing more on SCFA when talking about healing the gut. While each person will have an individualized plan to balance SCFA, there are a few easy ways to get started. Focusing on a diet that includes diverse fibers and polyphenols will start to support SCFA levels. To take the next step in balancing SCFA, test your levels to find out if you have high or low levels.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement regimen.