The bacteria that reside in our digestive tract influence our weight.  There are certain strains of bacteria that seem to be associated with weight gain and conversely weight loss.  We live in a world where we super sanitize everything, we add antibiotics to foods and take them often (sometimes necessarily and sometimes maybe not).  Our standard american diet is often deficient of fruits and vegetables and is full of refined processed foods.  All of this affects the quality and quantity of beneficial gut bacteria.

Currently there are certain strains of probiotics associated with assisting in weight reduction.  There are ongoing studies on fecal transplant for obesity.  Eating living foods that contain healthy strains of bacteria such as yogurt and fermented foods (pickles, sauerkraut) and considering probiotics can support a weight loss plan.

How does gut bacteria affect weight loss? 

The following types clues in your history can indicate that maybe your microbiome could be working against you.

1.  You were born via cesarian section.  WHAT??? yes, if you came into this world as a cesarian section baby you missed going through the birth canal and “seeding” your digestive tract with bacteria.
2. You have needed recurrent or prolonged antibiotics.  Antibiotics decimate gut bacteria.
3. Your diet during childhood or adulthood has not been the best.  Even if it is better now, it takes time to bring your digestive tract back in balance.

Come and take a deep dive into hidden causes of weight gain at Sparkle.