Fibre is more than Roughage
Dietary fibre has traditionally been viewed as "roughage" that simply helps maintain regular bowel movements. However, modern nutritional science has demonstrated that fibre plays a far more complex and significant role in human health. Fibre influences digestive function, gut microbiota composition, immune regulation, metabolic health, cardiovascular wellbeing, and the production of beneficial compounds known as Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs). This course explores the diverse physiological functions of dietary fibre and its impact on health throughout adulthood. Participants will examine the structure and function of the digestive system, understand the various components of dietary fibre, and learn how fibre is fermented by intestinal microorganisms to produce SCFAs that support overall wellbeing.
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Learning Outcomes
What you'll learn
- Outline the impacts of dietary fibre consumption on human health.
- Describe the adult digestive system and its processing of dietary fibre.
- Explain the major dietary fibre components and their physiological functions.
- Discuss the Australian Fibre Experience and current fibre intake trends.
- Explain the causes and consequences of Short Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) deficiency.
- Describe the individual effects of the major SCFAs: acetate, propionate, and butyrate.
- Recognize the relationship between gut microbiota and fibre metabolism.
- Apply evidence-based recommendations to improve dietary fibre intake.
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Learning Outcomes
What you'll learn
- Outline the impacts of dietary fibre consumption on human health.
- Describe the adult digestive system and its processing of dietary fibre.
- Explain the major dietary fibre components and their physiological functions.
- Discuss the Australian Fibre Experience and current fibre intake trends.
- Explain the causes and consequences of Short Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) deficiency.
- Describe the individual effects of the major SCFAs: acetate, propionate, and butyrate.
- Recognize the relationship between gut microbiota and fibre metabolism.
- Apply evidence-based recommendations to improve dietary fibre intake.
Stay updated with our


Training Overview
- Understanding Fibre and Its Impact on Health
- The Adult Digestive System and Fibre Processing
- Dietary Fibre Components and Their Functions
- The Australian Fibre Experience
- Short Chain Fatty Acid Deficiency and Its Causes
- Major Short Chain Fatty Acids and Their Individual Effects
- Summary
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Frequently asked questions
Fibre not only supports bowel regularity but also influences gut microbiota, SCFA production, immune function, metabolic health, cardiovascular health, and chronic disease prevention.
Good sources include fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, oats, and foods containing resistant starch.
SCFAs are beneficial compounds produced when gut bacteria ferment dietary fibre in the large intestine. The primary SCFAs are acetate, propionate, and butyrate.
SCFA deficiency is often associated with low fibre intake, poor dietary habits, disruptions in gut microbiota, illness, and certain medications such as antibiotics.
Recommended intake varies by age and sex, but many dietary guidelines suggest approximately 25–30 grams of fibre per day for adults.
Butyrate serves as the primary energy source for colon cells, supports intestinal barrier integrity, and helps regulate inflammation within the digestive tract.
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