Overweight and obesity are indeed an increasingly serious problem in society. What is more, the latter was already classified some time ago as one of the diseases of civilisation.
All the more so since obesity is already closely linked to other serious problems — type II diabetes,
insulin resistance, hypertension or problems with the cardiovascular system.
It is a fact that in many cases this happens because energy expenditure is much lower than the energy balance. Then the energy has to be “packed” somewhere and is stored in adipose tissue. Over time, overweight appears, and then obesity. This is where the other problems come from…
Visceral adipose tissue has a significant impact on the development of problems with glycaemia, cardiovascular issues, arterial hypertension or metabolic syndrome.
Another point is that studies confirm that the condition of the digestive tract, including the intestines, and thus the bacterial flora, is an important factor affecting the risk and progression of obesity.
Bacterial flora and its disturbances
Scientists emphasize that there is credible evidence of a significant increase in appetite as a result of disturbances of the intestinal flora. All the more so since it is the bacteria residing in the intestines that are responsible for the absorption of nutrients and the production of certain vitamins.
In addition, one of the tasks of the microflora of the large intestine is, among other things, fermentation during digestion. As a result of this process, butyric acid is formed, which supports the metabolism of both lipids and glucose in the liver.
Gut bacteria also break down undigested polysaccharides, resulting in an additional portion of energy. Fiber, in turn, is broken down into short-chain fatty acids, which are also converted into energy.
Disturbances of the flora lead to increased energy intake from food. It has been observed that in people whose body mass decreased, the amount of Bacteroides increased. Basically, it is about a disturbance in the ratio between the amounts of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. A decrease in the former relative to an increase in the latter may result in increased energy intake from food.
It is worth knowing that Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes are among the most widespread gut bacteria. They participate in the production of SCFAs and stimulate peptide YY, which inhibits intestinal transit, which in effect leads to increased absorption of nutrients.
Energy intake and expenditure are the basic issues in regulating body weight. The influence of gut flora on this aspect is still the subject of research, although evidence exists, and the opinions of some experts suggest that taking care of the intestines and the bacteria living there may support shaping the figure.
Unfortunately, it works both ways, so disturbances in this area may increase the risk of developing obesity — especially when other factors are present (high exposure to stress, an inappropriate diet and excess carbohydrates, low physical activity,
digestive problems etc.).
Probiotics may help counteract obesity
According to experts, appropriate dietary and supplementation measures aimed at eliminating problems with intestinal dysbiosis and intestinal permeability may be extremely important in regulating body weight, and thus also in counteracting obesity.
Gut bacteria are involved in the production of digestive enzymes that break down cholesterol and carbohydrates. In addition, the appropriate bacterial flora ensures optimal absorption of nutrients from food. They also participate in the production of amino acids and vitamin K and B vitamins. They are important for the body’s energy metabolism, body composition, hormonal balance and appetite.
Some sources also provide information on evidence of the beneficial effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus PL60 on weight reduction in cases of overweight. Although studies on animal models are most often cited, they may indicate the effectiveness of supplementation in this regard.
Weight reduction and counteracting obesity are a complex process, in which many factors need to be taken care of. In my opinion, intestinal barrier integrity and the appropriate bacterial flora belong to this group, because:
- they support nutrient absorption,
- they support the digestive mechanism,
- they influence appetite regulation,
- they reduce the risk of inflammation, as well as the occurrence of diseases that limit the ability to reduce adipose tissue and promote weight gain,
- they support addressing problems related to sugar metabolism and glycaemia.
A well-selected probiotic and consistency in its use, together with the elimination of harmful factors, may change our lives. The intestines are the basis of immunity, well-being, proper health condition, detoxification, a sharp mind and vitality.
