Researchers have uncovered a potentially significant approach to combat obesity through intermittent calorie restriction (IER), which affects both gut microbiota and brain activity. In a 62-day study involving 25 obese volunteers, participants experienced an average weight loss of 7.8% (about 16.8 pounds). The study revealed alterations in brain regions related to obesity and addiction, as well as changes in gut bacteria composition.
Health researcher Qiang Zeng noted that the IER diet modifies the brain-gut-microbiome axis in humans. While the exact mechanisms behind these changes remain unclear, they highlight the interconnectedness of the gut and brain in regulating appetite.
Functional MRI scans revealed changes in significant brain areas like the inferior fronto-orbital gyrus, which are linked to executive functions and willpower in food intake. The gut microbiome, producing neurotransmitters that influence the brain, also reflects dietary changes.
With over 1 billion people globally classified as obese, understanding the dynamics between gut health and brain function may provide insights for effective obesity prevention and treatment. Future research aims to clarify the specific gut microbiota and brain regions crucial for successful weight loss. The study was published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.
