Effects of dietary fibers and prebiotics in adiposity regulation via modulation of gut microbiota

Abstract

The microbiota is indispensable for human health and the regulation of various body functions, including energy metabolism. The harmonic crosstalk between the microbiota and the intestinal epithelial barrier determines gut homeostasis and health status in the healthy subject. Obesity and type 2 diabetes risk are, to some extent, explained by alterations in the microbiota. Since recent data indicate that the population of gut microorganisms can influence nutrient absorption and energy storage thus prevalence on obesity and metabolic disorders. Moreover, metabolic disease conditions, such as obesity, may be stimulated by genetic, environmental factors and by pathways that link metabolism with the immune system. On the basis of the above considerations, this review compiles the current results obtained in recent studies indicating the gut microbiota contribution to obesity development.