Your Microbiome And Obesity

There has been a plethora of interest in the human microbiome as of late. In fact, barely a week ago, a new study was published, which showed that mice who drank water (laced with huger-suppressing bacteria) ate less, had lower body fat, and staved off diabetes – even when consuming a poor diet.1 This is just the latest of many potential breakthroughs made in the last few years in regards to the microbiome. Though this breakthrough is specific to obesity, there are many unique and diverse links made to the types of bacteria found within our gut.2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Your Microbiome and Obesity | The Paleo Diet

Interestingly, another recent study discussed the link between the lifestyles of indigenous populations, and their gut health.9 Researchers found the microbial populations among various hunter-gatherers were markedly similar – and drastically different than those who live a more modern way of life.10, 11, 12, 13 This supports the observation that human microbiomes are actively involved in health, and that subsequent changes from living more sanitized, industrialized lifestyles, has led to increased likelihood of autoimmune disorders.14, 15, 16 This is yet another way in which our Paleolithic ancestors had it right.17, 18

It has taken the scientific community some time to come around to the realization that obesity is correlated with an alteration in the gut microbiome.19, 20 Two classes of bacteria (bacteroides and firmacutes) are important here, with firmacutes bacteria being very prevalent in those whom are obese.21, 22, 23 But, it turns out not all the data supports firmacutes being the only factor. The main focus, instead, as far as mechanism goes, is the formation of increased amounts of metabolic endotoxins.24, 25 These metabolic endotoxins are more specifically, deoxycholic acid and lipopolysaccharides (LPS).26, 27

Your Microbiome and Obesity | The Paleo Diet

A Paleo diet promotes improved gut health, whereas the Western diet is a large source of problems, for the microbiome.28, 29 Interestingly, we see the duality of evidence here, in that (observationally) hunter-gatherers display much better microbial profiles.30 But, we also have specific mechanistic evidence, which shows exactly how poor gut health translates into obesity. This is a clear-cut example that the Western diet (quite literally) makes us sick – and fat.

Your Microbiome and Obesity | The Paleo Diet

So, what can one do, if looking to optimize their microbiome? Many will state that a probiotic is absolutely necessary, and there is no other way to improve your ratio of beneficial microbiota. This is simply not the case. Quite obviously, you should eat a nutrient-dense, protein and antioxidant packed diet. A Paleo diet is beneficial for a myriad of reasons, but including fermented foods (like sauerkraut) regularly, will result in a vastly improved ratio of good bacteria to bad bacteria. Without any extra supplementation required!

And, this improved ratio is a significant shield against obesity, as evidenced by salient scientific literature. This optimal ratio of specific types of microbes is simply something that a Western diet is not capable of achieving. If you needed one more reason to consume a delicious Paleo diet, the emerging link between gut health and obesity, is definitely one of the best reasons. Go home, enjoy a glass of kombucha or dig into a bowl of sauerkraut, and take comfort in the fact that you are helping to nurture your microbiome – so you may stay lean and healthy for a long time to come.

+ REFERENCES

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This article originally appeared on The Paleo Diet.