A new study published in the journal Cell Metabolism reveals our appetite is in tight connection with our gut bacteria. Believe it or not, it’s not your consciousness telling you to refuse seconds, but your gut microbiome.
- Gut bacteria is in charge with setting our appetite
- The study showed E.coli bacteria produce different protein after eating, either to continue the chow-down, or to forgo second servings
- Results could help nutritionists gain new insight about eating disorders
Following an intensive research of the bacteria inside the stomachs of rats and mice, researchers are sure they know the source that signals the brain you’ve had enough or you can continue binging on that bucket of KFC. Results showed that gut bacteria are responsible with letting the brain know when enough is enough.
Therefore, it’s only logical to conclude that the healthier your gut microbiome is, the better signals it will send to your appetite control center. Different multiplications of these bacteria can lead to opposite feelings, either of hunger or satiety. Researchers hope this new insight will help nutritionists treat eating disorders with more effectiveness.
Eating a heavy meal – rich in fats and carbohydrates – can leave you feeling bloated, something that was previously thought to be related to the stomach’s stretching. But now we know better. Different signals are sent to the brain depending on the balance or imbalance of bacteria in the gut.
This is what makes us either reach for another crispy strip or forgo it; this bacterial balance that goes on in our bowels is the mastermind behind all of it. In fact, researchers found there are more things the gut microbiome is responsible for besides your appetite, such as your behavioral repertoire and your emotions.
Scientists studied very thoroughly the effect of E.coli bacteria on appetite and found they started producing a different type of protein 20 minutes after each feeding. One protein activated the satiety hormone and another one gave signals to the brain’s appetite center to cease activity.
Thus gut bacteria – and not the organism or our own intentions – is in charge with deciding whether to chow down or skip a meal. Researchers think this newfound bacterial manipulation could have extended consequences, such as influencing our mood swings or hunger signals.
A healthy gut microbiome is supported by a healthy balanced diet, so eat a little of everything – moderation is key. Previous studies have proven that adding fermented foods to your eating habits could also have a good influence on the millions of little generals commanding your appetite.
Image Source: Authority Nutrition
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