Effects of dietary fiber on the composition, function, and symbiotic interactions of intestinal microbiota in pre-weaned calves.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Dietary fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining gastrointestinal health. However, its protective effects on the intestinal health of calves remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary fiber supplementation on the intestinal microbiota of pre-weaned calves and its potential role in modulating microbial metabolic pathways.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted, enrolling 135 calves that were randomly assigned into three groups: (1) inulin supplementation, (2) psyllium husk powder (PHP) supplementation, and (3) a control group receiving no dietary fiber. Fecal microbiota samples were collected from calves without diarrhea at five time points (0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 days of age). Metagenomic sequencing was perfo

SUBMITTER: Lu W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11975667 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature