‘Bad’ gut bacteria linked to excess weight

Posted in Latest Research ... March 17th, 2010

Recent research from Emory Univerity, Atlanta, suggests that the level and type of certain bacteria in the gut may be linked to increased appetite and corresponding weight gain. The study on mice noticed that the heavier rodents had poorer immune systems and more gut inflammation that their lighter counterparts. Upon investigation, it was shown that they also had a greater variety, and higher levels, of ‘bad’ bacteria in their guts. Professor Andrew Gewirtz ,who led the study, suggests that bad bacteria may cause sugar to be converted into fat rather that being transported to muscle for energy. The link between bad gut bacteria and weight gain is not new, with some researchers suggesting that bad bacteria may be as much a risk factor for obesity as a poor diet and lack of exercise.

Just Nutrition Viewpoint

Sugar, and a diet high in refined carbohydrates, promotes the growth of bad bacteria. A high fibre diet, on the other hand,  comprising whole grains, fruit and vegetables, promotes the growth of ‘good’ bacteria and may be as beneficial as taking a probiotic supplement. The problem with such supplements is that the bowel contains a vast variety of bacteria, both ‘good’ and ’bad’, and it is not yet known exactly which of these promotes health and disease.