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Diet at the Village: January
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Gut-level reaction
We nourish trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes in our small and large intestines. To thank us for feeding them, they break down food and police against invaders, but do they also play a role in weight management?
New research shows that when the munching microbes ferment food for their own energy, they "share" the bounty with their hosts — that's us — at different rates. Some hog it mostly for themselves, combusting the calories; others release the calories back to us, pumping 'em into our system. That means the same amount of food may deliver more calories to you than to your best friend. "This research is very preliminary, but hugely interesting,"says Madelyn.
How you can take advantage of the bugs in your gut...
Eat yogurt to lose weight and reduce tummy troubles >>
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