UW-Madison researchers have developed a method for increasing butyrate production in the gut. The method includes delivering a microbial community that include certain bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms. These communities were identified using a both empirical data and a computational model, which included various conditions (e.g., growth media). Further, the researchers were able to enhance butyrate production with these communities by supplementing with dietary fiber, including inulin and laminarin. These communities and the dietary fiber can be administered orally or rectally, and simultaneously or sequentially. Upon administration, the increased butyrate production in the gut could generate benefits throughout the body, including protection against cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, irritable bowel disease, immune system dysregulation, poor mental health and cognition.