• Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) improves lipid profiles and inhibits weight loss in type 2 diabetic rats.
• LBP reduces inflammation and insulin resistance by modulating key cytokines and hormones.
• LBP reshapes gut microbiota composition, increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful ones.
• LBP elevates short-chain fatty acid levels, with specific bacteria linked to butyrate and isobutyrate production.