Impact of dietary fiber in animal diet; a mini review

Abstract

This mini review describes dietary fibers, their source and compositions. It explores the importance of fiber in the animal diet, health benefit and how fiber contributes to the production of healthy animals in post antibiotics era. The review also discusses fiber fermentation, role in nutrient digestion, enzyme production and how the gut microbiota responds to a selection of fibers. And the components of fiber that increases microbiota which are commensal to the mucus and epithelium of gut. Lastly, recommendations are made on how dietary fiber could be used to achieve maximum advantages in terms of nutrient utilization, performance, and gut health in both monogastric and ruminant animals.