The Role of Gut Microbes in Obesity
Author Information
Author(s): Yolanda Sanz, Arlette Santacruz, Giada De Palma
Primary Institution: Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)
Hypothesis
Gut microbes contribute to body weight regulation and related disorders by influencing metabolic and immune host functions.
Conclusion
The study suggests that dietary strategies to modulate gut microbiota composition could be effective in controlling metabolic disorders related to obesity.
Supporting Evidence
- Obesity is linked to an imbalance in gut microbiota composition.
- Specific gut microbes can influence energy extraction and storage from food.
- Dysbiosis may contribute to insulin resistance and weight gain.
- Dietary changes can alter gut microbiota composition and affect health.
- Probiotics and prebiotics may help manage metabolic disorders.
Takeaway
Gut bacteria help our bodies manage weight and can make us gain or lose weight depending on what we eat.
Methodology
The review summarizes existing studies on the relationship between gut microbiota composition and obesity, including effects of probiotics and prebiotics.
Limitations
The cause-effect relationships of gut microbiota with obesity remain unclear and few in vivo trials have been conducted.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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