Your gut is home to over 100 trillion microbial cells. They have all sorts of jobs including mood regulation, regulation of immune health and keeping digestion properly on track. While we know that some bacterial strains are more helpful than others to your overall health, more recent research has identified a link between the type of bacteria in your intestines and your body weight.

Individuals struggling with obesity have been found to have less diversity in the strains of bacteria that they harbor. This is a result of genetics, the foods you ingest and one’s environment. Certain microbes that stimulate the production of hormones like Leptin, that makes you feel full, may be missing. Others increase fermentation of carbohydrates and encourage the body to absorb more calories or store fat.

Fiber-filled plant based foods appear to protect against obesity causing bacteria. Diets high in fat, sugar, animal products and artificial ingredients are linked to microbes that promote weight gain. Cravings of unhealthy foods can also be increased when unhealthy bacteria has the “upper hand” in your body.

New England researchers found that changes in diet can affect a person’s gut microbes in a short period of time. Many believe that a daily probiotic can also be beneficial.

When you think about weight loss, think about improving your health by making positive and sustainable changes. One of those steps includes encouraging your body to house variable and healthy gut strains of bacteria. We want to support a healthy internal environment.

When you eat right, your gut does too.