Bioactive peptides, derived from various sources such as animals, plants, and microorganisms, have significant effects on gut microbiota and human health. These peptides influence gut microbiota composition, immune responses, and barrier functions, contributing to overall gut health. They can modulate the gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful ones, thereby enhancing gut immunity and reducing inflammation. Bioactive peptides also exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity properties, which are crucial for maintaining a balanced gut microbiota and preventing chronic diseases. Additionally, they play a role in modulating the gut-brain axis, influencing neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. However, the safety and potential risks of bioactive peptides must be carefully evaluated, as some peptides can be toxic. The review highlights the importance of further research to understand the mechanisms of action, absorption, and interactions of bioactive peptides with gut microbiota, aiming to develop new therapeutic and nutritional interventions. The study emphasizes the need for more clinical trials and pre-clinical evaluations to ensure the safety and efficacy of bioactive peptides in promoting human health.Bioactive peptides, derived from various sources such as animals, plants, and microorganisms, have significant effects on gut microbiota and human health. These peptides influence gut microbiota composition, immune responses, and barrier functions, contributing to overall gut health. They can modulate the gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful ones, thereby enhancing gut immunity and reducing inflammation. Bioactive peptides also exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity properties, which are crucial for maintaining a balanced gut microbiota and preventing chronic diseases. Additionally, they play a role in modulating the gut-brain axis, influencing neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. However, the safety and potential risks of bioactive peptides must be carefully evaluated, as some peptides can be toxic. The review highlights the importance of further research to understand the mechanisms of action, absorption, and interactions of bioactive peptides with gut microbiota, aiming to develop new therapeutic and nutritional interventions. The study emphasizes the need for more clinical trials and pre-clinical evaluations to ensure the safety and efficacy of bioactive peptides in promoting human health.