The microbiome and the weight connection!
We are all now fully aware of the benefits of healthy gut bacteria. A healthy digestive system, optimal bowel function, enhanced immunity, happy brain neurotransmitters, less incidence of eczema in children and adults and a down regulation of inflammatory path waves (think colds, flus and hay fever).
Most recent research shows an added benefit of regular supplementation with specific strains of probiotics. A reduction in total body fat mass and a reduction in body weight.
Indeed a daily dose of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis (B-420) has been shown in a clinical trial to; control total body fat, reduce waist circumference, control body weight, reduce abdominal fat and promote short chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.
Not bad for a single strain of a probiotic!
A growing body of literature is substantiating the link between the intestinal microbiota and the regulation of body weight and body mass. Inappropriate levels of beneficial bacteria and a lack of microbial diversity may contribute to an altered metabolic function resulting in a predisposition to gain weight more easily and an increased visceral mass. Improved microbial diversity may result in a more efficient extraction of energy from food, reduced gut permeability and improved satiety signalling (telling you when you are full).
Chronic low-grade inflammation is a major factor in the development of obesityrelated disturbances, and may be caused by dietary factors, as well as an abnormally increased gut permeability to bacteria. Circulating endotoxins are a major cause of inflammation and may contribute to metabolic disturbances, such as visceral fat deposition, glucose intolerance, and hepatic insulin resistance.
The dose used in this clinical trial was 10 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium animalis
ssp lactis (B-420).