Gut toxins linked to weight gain.
Fragments of bacteria from the gut, known as endotoxins, are damaging fat cells and driving weight gain, according to a study by scientists at Nottingham Trent University. The researchers found that endotoxins can enter the bloodstream and directly affect how well fat cells function, which can contribute to obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study also found that weight loss interventions such as bariatric surgery can reverse the damage caused by endotoxins. The researchers suggest that limiting endotoxin-induced fat cell damage is even more important when you have excess weight, as the endotoxin contributes to reducing healthy cellular metabolism.