Leptin Resistance & Inflammation

Evidence is emerging of a bacterial factor in inflammation leading to weight gain and leptin resistance. According to Dr. Scott Isaacs, Atlanta endocrinologist, "Scientists at Emory University recently discovered different strains of intestinal bacteria in obese mice compared to normal weight. The finding gives evidence to the case that bacteria in the intestine can contribute to obesity and weight gain." Andrew Gewirtz, lead researcher for the study, does not believe the bacteria made the mice fat. However, the bacteria caused inflammation, which in turn caused insulin resistance that led to weight gain.

Significance

• Mice help scientists discover an obesity link

  Researchers at Emory, Cornell University and the University of Colorado at Boulder noticed the parallel between intestinal bugs and weight. Lab mice lacking a protein with inflammation had more "bugs" and were 15 percent heavier. The case was made that intestinal bacteria contribute to human obesity and metabolic disease.

Warning

• Dangers of obesity

  Inflammation can cause metabolic syndrome. This syndrome causes poor cholesterol numbers and weight gain, which can lead to resistance to leptin, a hormone that regulates appetite. These in turn can lead to high blood pressure and increased risk for diabetes and heart disease.

Misconceptions

• Exercise can help

  Andrew Gewirtz, Ph.D., associate professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at Emory University School of Medicine, says the assumption that the obesity epidemic is caused by fast foods and sedentary lifestyles may not be the entire story. "However, our results suggest that excess caloric consumption is not only a result of undisciplined eating but that intestinal bacteria contribute to changes in appetite and metabolism."

Theories and Speculation

• Bacteria can influence appetite and change the amount of food you eat. It is not clear if inflammation leads to intestinal bacteria or vice versa. Research is showing that it is possible to "catch" metabolic syndrome from your environment and not only through your genes.

Prevention or Solution

• The right diet may be a solution to inflammation

  A healthy diet not only reduces weight but also inflammation. A diet of unrefined foods reduces inflammation, along with fiber found in fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fats.