Improvement of Inflammation, Diabetes, and Obesity by Forest Product-Derived Polysaccharides through the Human Intestinal Microbiota

Abstract

The intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in determining human health, rendering it a major focus of scientific investigation. Rather than eliminating all microbes, promoting the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms within the gut has been recognized as a more effective approach to improving health. Unfavorable conditions potentially alter gut microbial populations, including a reduction in microbial diversity. However, intentionally enhancing the abundance of beneficial gut microbes can restore a state of optimal health. Polysaccharides are widely acknowledged for their potential to improve the gut microbiota. This review emphasizes the findings of recent studies examining the effects of forest product-derived polysaccharides on enhancing the gut microbiota and alleviating inflammation, diabetes symptoms, and obesity. The findings of several studies reviewed in this paper strongly suggest that forest products serve as an excellent dietary source for improving the gut microbiota and potentially offer valuable dietary interventions for chronic health problems, such as inflammation, diabetes, and obesity.