Uncontrollable cravings for sweets may be caused by intestinal problems

0

Scientists have concluded that overeating sweets due to a constant craving for them can occur due to a disruption in the intestinal microflora.

Researchers from the University of California have found that uncontrolled craving for sweets occurs when the level of S24-7 bacteria in the intestines decreases. Scientists were convinced of this by experimenting with mice.

The experts used animals with a disturbed intestinal microbiota after taking antibiotics, comparing their eating behavior with the behavior of animals that had normal, intact microflora.

It turned out that when the mice were given the opportunity to eat sugar, the rodents with a problematic intestine absorbed 50% more of it. What is characteristic: later, when the microbial composition of the intestines of the animals was restored, they stopped demonstrating an uncontrollable craving for sweet taste.

The scientists are convinced that the conclusion about the connection between a disturbed intestinal microbiome and the abuse of sweets is also relevant for humans.

“Intestinal bacteria influence the occurrence of eating disorders – overeating and anorexia nervosa. In people with them, the intestinal microbiota differs from people who have not been diagnosed with these conditions,” Current Biology quoted experts.