Gut bacteria and obesity

The human gut contains approximately 400 different species of microbes, showing significant variability among individuals.

• The intestinal microbiota may contribute to obesity and metabolic syndrome.
• Transplanting gut microbiota from obese mice to germ-free, nonobese mice transferred features of metabolic syndrome.
• Gut microbiota may provide additional energy by converting dietary fiber into short-chain fatty acids.
• Effects on gut-hormone production and increased intestinal permeability may elevate levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS).
• This metabolic endotoxemia is associated with low-grade inflammation, commonly seen in obesity and metabolic syndrome.
• The endocannabinoid system may be activated by LPS and/or high-fat diets, potentially contributing to obesity.

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