The prebiotic properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract contribute to the beneficial effects in diet-induced obesity in mice

•HSE improved diet-induced obesity-associated inflammation in mice.•This study shows for the first time that HSE modulates the microbiota in obese mice.•Administration of HSE ameliorated gut dysbiosis in diet-induced obesity in mice.•Prebiotic properties of HSE could mediate its beneficial effects in obesity.•HSE could be developed as a potential functional food for the metabolic syndrome.