Inulin Modulates Gut Microbiota and Increases Short‐Chain Fatty Acids Levels to Inhibit Colon Tumorigenesis in Rat Models: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACT Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence rises with age, driven by factors such as diet. Inulin, a soluble fiber found in plants like Jerusalem artichoke and chicory, may influence CRC risk by modulating gut microbiota and improving metabolic profiles. This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluate the effects of inulin on CRC in animal models and explore its underlying mechanisms. A comprehensive search of nine databases led to the selection of 12 studies from an initial pool of 114 articles, based on predefined inclusion criteria. Standardized meta‐analyses were performed for eligible studies. Results indicate that inulin supplementation significantly reduced aberrant crypt foci count in rats (SMD = −3.805, 95% CI, −7.348 to −0.262, p < 0.001), increased cecal weight (SMD = 6.723, 95% CI, 3.395–10.051, p = 0.000), enhanced colonic lactobacillus counts (SMD = 1.307, 95% CI, 0.644–1.970, p = 0.000), decreased coliform bacteria (SMD = −1.659, 95% CI, −2.147 to −1.171, p = 0.000), and elevated colonic short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels, including acetate (SMD = 3.50, 95% CI, 1.111–5.890, p < 0.001), propionate (SMD = 3.081, 95% CI, 1.416–4.746, p < 0.001), and butyrate (SMD = 4.471, 95% CI, 2.464–6.478, p < 0.001). This systematic review demonstrates inulin's chemopreventive effects against CRC in animal models by enhancing beneficial gut bacteria (e.g., lactobacillus) and boosting SCFAs. Findings advocate integrating inulin‐rich foods/supplements into prevention strategies for precision prebiotic development via SCFA‐mediated epigenetic and antitumor mechanisms.