Activation of receptors involved in gut microbial breakdown of fiber may cut heart disease risk by up to 20%

A Monash University study of almost 400,000 people, published in the journal Cardiovascular Research , is the first to indicate, in humans, that the signaling of substances called short-chain fatty acids or SCFAs, released when gut bacteria break down dietary fiber, significantly protects against cardiovascular disease and hypertension by up to 20%.