According to the theory of infectobesity, weight gain and obesity may have an infectious origin. Infectobesity is a term used to describe the emerging field of research that aims to establish connections between infectious pathogens and the accumulation of excess body weight. Obesity is not merely a cosmetic concern but a medical condition that elevates the risk of various health problems, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Scientists and experts are optimistic that advancements in infectobesity research will contribute to addressing the ongoing obesity epidemic.
The Infectobesity Theory
The concept of “infectobesity” was introduced by Dr. Nikhil Dhurandhar, who serves as the chair of the department of nutrition at Texas Tech University. During his research on adenoviruses, Dr. Dhurandhar discovered a specific type that stimulates the growth of fat cells in animals, and he also observed its potential connection to human obesity. As time went on, more and more evidence emerged, supporting the notion that viruses or bacteria could play a role in the development of obesity. Given the escalating global obesity rates, healthcare professionals are actively exploring new strategies for preventing and managing obesity, which has contributed to the growing interest in the infectobesity theory.
The Link Between Bacteria and Obesity
One of the primary focuses of research on infectobesity is exploring the connection between obesity and bacteria. The microorganisms that reside in the human digestive tract, known as gut flora, exhibit significant differences between lean individuals and those who are obese. At present, it remains unclear whether obesity is the cause or the consequence of this disparity. In 2008, a study suggested that gut bacteria play a role in energy processes and weight fluctuations. Further investigation is required to determine the extent to which gut bacteria influence obesity. Nevertheless, in the future, modifying a person’s gut flora could potentially be used as a treatment to help regulate their weight.