The present invention relates to methods for modulating the intestinal microbiota by administering one or more defensins and/or GLP-1/GLP-1 analogs and methods for prevention or treatment of gut inflammation by oral administration of one or more defensins. GLP-1 analogs such as Liraglutide, as well as mammalian and poultry alfa and beta defensins can cause a change in the composition of the microbiota and metabolome in the intestine and can therefore be used to treat or prevent gut inflammation, colorectal cancer, metabolic syndrome, obesity, prediabetes and diabetes or as lean growth promoters in the meat production.
