Belgian experts discover "weight-loss bacteria"

This bacterium usually accounts for 3-5% of intestinal bacteria, but is less in obese people. Studies have shown that adding this bacterium thickens the intestinal mucus barrier, preventing certain substances from entering the bloodstream from the intestine, and also changes chemical signals from the digestive system, prompting other parts of the body to change the way fat is processed.

In addition, adding a type of fiber to food increased the number of this bacteria, and the same results were achieved.

Patrice Carney, a professor at the Catholic University of Leuven, said: "This is definitely progress. Although we have not yet completely reversed obesity, we have greatly reduced the amount of fat. This shows for the first time a direct link between a specific flora and improved metabolism."

Professor Carney said it was "surprising" that there are thousands of bacteria in the intestines, but only one can produce such an effect. He said it was "the first step towards ultimately using this bacteria to prevent or treat obesity and type 2 diabetes." In the "not too distant future", some bacteria-based therapy will be available.

Professor Colin Hill, a microbiologist at the University of Cork, believes the study is more likely to lead people to understand what is happening in the gut, allowing them to tailor dietary recommendations for people trying to lose weight.