Beijing, China – A recent study conducted by researchers in China has shed light on the potential of intermittent calorie restriction as a method to combat the obesity crisis. The study, which involved 25 obese volunteers over a period of 62 days, revealed significant changes in both the gut and the brain, offering new possibilities for weight management.
During the study, participants followed an intermittent energy restriction (IER) program, which included carefully monitoring calorie intake and incorporating fasting on certain days. The results showed an average weight loss of 7.6 kilograms (16.8 pounds), equating to 7.8 percent of their body weight. Additionally, there were notable shifts in the activity of obesity-related regions in the brain and changes in gut bacteria composition.
Lead researcher Qiang Zeng from the Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases in China highlighted the impact of the IER diet on the brain-gut-microbiome axis. The study observed dynamic changes in the gut microbiome and the activity of brain regions associated with addiction and appetite regulation during and after weight loss.
The study utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans to identify alterations in brain activity, particularly in regions crucial for appetite and addiction regulation. In addition, analysis of gut microbiome changes through stool samples and blood measurements revealed correlations with specific brain regions.
Noteworthy findings included the negative association between bacteria such as Coprococcus and Eubacterium hallii with activity in the left inferior frontal orbital gyrus, an area linked to executive function and willpower in food intake. Medical scientist Xiaoning Wang emphasized the intricate communication between the gut microbiome and the brain, underscoring the role of neurotransmitters and nutrients in this two-directional relationship.
With over a billion people worldwide classified as obese, understanding the interdependence of the brain and gut could have a significant impact on efforts to prevent and reduce obesity-related health issues. Further research aims to unravel the mechanisms underlying communication between the gut microbiome and the brain in obese individuals, especially during weight loss.
Biomedical scientist Liming Wang from the Chinese Academy of Sciences posed key questions for future investigation, focusing on the critical gut microbiome and brain regions pivotal for successful weight loss and weight maintenance. The findings of this study were published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.