Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of carotenoids, in particular a microbial carotenoid compound of formula I, such as methyl-glycosyl-apo-8?-lycopenoate or glycosyl-apo-8?-lycopene, for restoring and/or maintaining a health-beneficial gut microbial composition in a subject. The invention further provides the use of said compound in the treatment of disorders associated with a disturbed intestinal barrier integrity, such as for example irritable bowel syndrome. Further, a compound or composition comprising a microbial carotenoid compound is disclosed for use in the prevention and/or treatment of disorders associated with disturbed intestinal barrier integrity.