Long-Term Study Explores Fiber’s Metabolic Impact
October 28, 2025In 2021, Sensus shared its involvement in a pioneering method to map human fermentation. Today, we’re proud to announce the nex.t step: the launch of the first long-term human study using this innovative technology to explore how inulin/dietary fibers influence gut fermentation and metabolism.
This groundbreaking research builds on the real-time measurement of fermentation gases in the human gut—a method that allows scientists to track microbial activity and its metabolic impact with unprecedented precision. The study, led by Prof. Ellen Blaak and Dr. Emanuel Canfora, and conducted in collaboration with Maastricht University, UMC Groningen, Maastricht Instruments, and Sensus, will run over four years. It aims to validate the technology and investigate how dietary fibers like inulin and RS affect fat burning, energy use, satiety hormones, and even brain health. The project also includes in vitro experiments to explore immune pathways and gut barrier function, offering a holistic view of how fermentation shapes human health.
By capturing real-time metabolic signatures of gut microbial fermentation, this research lays the foundation for personalized nutrition and prevention strategies. It marks a major leap forward in our understanding of the gut microbiome’s role in chronic diseases—and how targeted dietary interventions can support long-term health.