Macro insights into the shared and distinct regulations of dietary polysaccharides on gut microbiota and their roles in obesity

Obesity has emerged as a global health epidemic, demanding a comprehensive understanding of its etiology and potential interventions. Recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of gut microbiota in maintaining host health. Additionally, dietary polysaccharides (DP), such as pectic polysaccharides, sulfated polysaccharides, glucan-like polysaccharides, and fructan-like polysaccharides, have been identified as crucial regulators that influence gut microbial composition, function, and metabolite production, thereby improving obesity and mitigating its complications. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest findings regarding the sources and structural characteristics of different DP, their shared and distinct effects on gut microbiota and associated metabolites, and the consequent influence on obesity and its complications. By unraveling the complex interplay among DP, gut microbiota, and obesity-related outcomes, we strive to offer valuable insights that can inform the development of precise dietary interventions and therapeutic strategies aimed at tackling obesity and enhancing public health.