Surprising Causes of Weight Gain

7. Dysbiosis

Dysbiosis, an imbalanced gut microbiome, can incite metabolic processes that promote obesity. People carrying excess weight tend to have lower bacterial diversity and different proportions of gastrointestinal microbes than leaner individuals. Antibiotics change the composition of gut microbiota, and they are associated with obesity, especially among children. Naturally, the diet has an immense impact on the health of gut microbiota, influencing metabolism and inflammation. Researchers are exploring how foods and food supplements can enhance gut health to relieve obesity. One study found that prebiotics can help reduce body weight in children.