In a breaking news story, researchers are excited to show that unhealthy gut bacteria can be linked to increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic levels globally. Scientists estimate that more than half of the people who have the illness do not even know it. Dramatic changes in diet over the past several decades may also be linked to increased incidences of imbalances in gut bacteria, and increased levels of autoimmune system illnesses.
Researchers in both China and Denmark studied the gut bacteria of people who have type 2 diabetes compared to individuals without the disorder. Researchers found that individuals with type 2 diabetes have high levels of hostile bacteria that do not support gut health. The studies also found that gut bacteria present in patients with type 2 diabetes are resistant to many medications and differ in composition from healthy gut bacteria.
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Researchers are not sure if individuals who develop type 2 diabetes are born with unhealthy gut bacteria that contribute to the development of their condition. They plan on conducting further studies by transplanting gut bacteria from individuals with diabetes into healthy mice to observe if the mice then develop type 2 diabetes.
Maintaining Gut Health
Gut health impacts more than just intestinal health. It also influences immune system functioning. Eating a diet rich in probiotic foods can help maintain healthy levels of gut bacteria for optimal immune system and intestinal functioning. As researchers examine the role of gut health on illness such as type 2 diabetes, the importance of eating a healthy diet, avoiding processed foods and antibiotics becomes more clear.
Many researchers have suggested that the dramatic change in diet to processed foods is a contributing factor to the rise of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Foods that are high in fat and processed GMO grains have increased the levels of food sensitivity. Additionally, high fructose corn syrup in many foods also increases weight gain. Large amounts of antibiotics present in many conventionally raised foods also increases obesity levels in humans.
To avoid the weight trap and potentially developing type 2 diabetes, it is important to eat whole organic foods. Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can improve overall health. Also, eating probiotic foods daily and avoiding antibiotics when possible can also help maintain healthy levels of gut bacteria. This can improve immune system functioning and overall health.
Does type 2 diabetes run in your family? What measures do you take to avoid gaining weight? We would love to hear your ideas in your comments!
– The Alternative Daily