Most research suggests that RS works by acting as a source of fermentable fiber to feed microbes of the gut microbiome. When RS undergoes bacterial fermentation, it leads to the production of SCFAs like butyrate, propionate, and acetate.[1] These SCFAs are capable of influencing the health of our body in a multitude of ways, including the promotion of a healthy gut environment and assistance with regulation of appetite, inflammation, and metabolism.[2] The process of RS fermentation also encourages the growth of more bacteria capable of producing SCFAs,[3] which might explain why the effects of RS tend to be more pronounced when taken for longer durations.[4]
How does resistant starch work?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Resistant starch acts as a fermentable fiber that feeds gut microbes and leads to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate. These SCFAs promote a healthy gut environment and assist in regulating appetite, inflammation, and metabolism, and the effects become more pronounced over longer durations of intake.