What specific Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA), vital for maintaining healthy colon cells and reducing inflammation, is a byproduct of the bacterial fermentation of inulin in the digestive tract?
Answer
Butyrate
The process of bacterial fermentation of inulin by beneficial gut microbes results in the production of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs). Among these, butyrate is specifically mentioned as being vital for maintaining the health and integrity of colon cells. Furthermore, butyrate plays a significant role in reducing inflammation within the digestive tract. While acetate, propionate, and lactate are other known SCFAs, the text singles out butyrate for its primary protective role concerning colon cell maintenance and inflammation mitigation following inulin consumption.

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