Could Your Gut Bacteria Be Inhibiting Your Ability To Lose Weight?

Almost everyone has made a New Year's resolution to lose weight. And most have failed. But contrary to popular belief, it is not always due to a lack of willpower. Research is now showing that the real reason might be hidden in your gut health.

IS WEIGHT LOSS RESISTANCE REAL?

Weight loss resistance is a term used to describe the situation where people who, despite an appropriate diet and exercise program, are unable to drop excess body fat. Any personal trainer will know this is their worst nightmare! It is often assumed that these people are lying about what they eat or how much they exercise. However science is now suggesting that there are other variables that need to be considered, including our gut bacteria.

MORE ON THE MICROBIOME

The human microbiome is basically the trillions of microbes that inhabit the human body. They are estimated to outnumber our human cells by as much as 10 to one and the latest scientific research suggests they have a huge impact on our health. The bacteria in our gut have an important role to play, From processing nutrients in the foods we eat and synthesising vitamins, to supporting the immune system and regulating hormones.

But if this ecosystem gets imbalanced, the consequences can extend far beyond the intestinal tract. Everything from allergies, diabetes, autoimmune conditions and mental health and obesity have been associated with changes in the gut microbiome.

WHAT IS THE LINK BETWEEN GUT BACTERIA AND WEIGHT LOSS RESISTANCE?

New research indicates that our gut bacteria affect the way we store fat, how we balance blood glucose levels, and the hormones that make us feel hungry or full. The wrong mix of gut bacteria can even set the stage for obesity from the moment you are born.