In a study released from Cornell University, researchers have discovered that certain microorganisms in the gut may be linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. These gut compounds have been linked with accumulated body toxins and may be related to environmental exposure.
Gut Health and Body Weight
While researchers at universities around the United States are working to gain a better understanding of metabolism and how it impacts the development of type 2 diabetes, interest in exactly how the body reacts to certain chemicals has grown. Researchers at Cornell have discovered that a specific group of microbes located in the gut have a strong influence on whether or not a person develops type 2 diabetes. Called “obesogenic compounds,” these organisms are found in the intestinal system and influence how the body metabolizes and processes foods linked to development of the illness. Obesogenic compounds also influence weight gain, which is a major contributing factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.
The community of microorganisms in a person’s gut is unique. In order to maintain optimal gut health, it is important to consume foods high in probiotics, such as yogurt and fermented foods, which promote healthy intestinal flora and improve the ability of the immune system to fight off infections. However, this new information sheds light on the importance of gut health when it comes to predicting how much weight a person may gain and whether or not they might develop type 2 diabetes.
Researchers hope that continued study of gut microbes will lead to new and more effective treatments to prevent type 2 diabetes. They foresee a day when doctors will be able to look for biomarkers to help assess health risks for diabetes and other conditions based on gut health and ecology.
– The Alternative Daily