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In recent years, weight loss and diabetes medications have gained popularity worldwide. They help shed excess pounds and manage blood sugar levels.
Interestingly, our bodies produce natural versions of these medications, known as incretin hormones from the gut. This was explained by Christopher Damman, a leading gastroenterologist and researcher at the University of Washington. He studies how food and the gut microbiome impact human health.
It’s no surprise that nutrients from our diet help regulate these hormones. However, the most fascinating aspect is that the trillions of bacteria in our gut play a crucial role in orchestrating this process, Mr. Damman noted.
How It Works
A group of bacteria in the lower intestine absorbs components of food that we cannot digest, such as fiber and polyphenols (plant elements often stripped from many processed foods). These bacteria convert them into molecules that stimulate hormones to regulate appetite and metabolism.
Among these hormones are GLP-1 and PYY. They help regulate blood sugar levels through the pancreas. Additionally, these hormones signal the brain that a person has eaten enough. They also instruct the stomach and intestines to slow down the movement of food through the digestive tract to ensure proper digestion. This system even has a name: the colonic brake.
Before the advent of modern processed foods, metabolic regulation pathways were under the control of a diverse and healthy gut microbiome. It utilized these hormones for natural regulation of metabolism and appetite. However, food processing aimed at prolonging shelf life and enhancing flavor removes essential bioactive substances, particularly fiber and polyphenols, which help regulate this system.
The removal of these key dietary components, and consequently the reduction in the diversity of the gut microbiome, may be a significant factor contributing to obesity and the development of diabetes.
Miracle Drugs Aren’t So Miraculous
Weight loss and diabetes medications activate the colon’s activity after meals and stimulate microbes using molecules similar to GLP-1. Researchers have demonstrated their effectiveness in weight loss and blood sugar control, as reported by Science Alert.
Despite the success and seemingly promising nature of these medications, current prescribing practices raise some skepticism.
Experts have repeatedly pointed out the side effects associated with these drugs, particularly gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These consequences indicate that the medications slow down the gastrointestinal tract’s function. Other, more serious side effects include pancreatitis and even gastric paralysis.
Moreover, these so-called miracle drugs can lead to the loss of healthy muscle mass, especially in the absence of physical exercise. A significant weight gain after discontinuing the medication raises further questions about their effectiveness.
All Roads Lead to a Healthy Lifestyle
According to Christopher Damman, a healthy lifestyle remains the most crucial way to combat metabolic diseases. This includes regular physical activity, stress management, quality sleep, outdoor walks, and a balanced diet.
For most people who do not have obesity or diabetes, the expert advises relying primarily on the built-in appetite and metabolism control system of the gut.
Another wise step is to create a diet based on minimally processed foods, especially those rich in fiber and polyphenols, such as flavonoids and carotenoids. This will also help combat obesity and metabolic diseases.
