Obesity is a global health issue with the United States having one of the highest levels of obesity. Low-grade chronic inflammation, often caused by dysfunction of white blood cells called monocytes, increases the risk of various health conditions in individuals with obesity. A recent small-scale study conducted in Mexico found that certain dietary interventions can enhance the function of mitochondria in monocytes, reduce inflammation, and modify gut bacteria. Further research is needed to determine if these findings could be beneficial in treating obesity.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), worldwide obesity rates have more than doubled in the past 30 years, with 16% of adults globally living with obesity. Obesity was previously prevalent in high-income countries like the United States, but it is now also common in middle-income countries. People with obesity have a body mass index (BMI) of over 30 and are at an increased risk of developing health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain cancers due to chronic low-grade inflammation.
Monocytes, a type of white blood cell, play a key role in immune responses and are a cause of the chronic inflammation associated with obesity. The study in Mexico included 44 participants aged 18 to 60 with a BMI of 30 to 50 kg/m2 who were divided into four treatment groups following different diets for two months. Results showed that individuals on calorie-restricted, intermittent fasting, and ketogenic diets had increased mitochondrial function in their monocytes, as well as positive changes in gut bacteria, compared to those on their normal diets.
Registered dietitian nutritionist Kelsey Costa emphasized the importance of mitochondrial health in obesity, as dysfunctional mitochondria can contribute to metabolic disorders. While these findings are promising, additional research is needed to validate them. Eamon Laird, PhD, an assistant lecturer in nutrition, pointed out that the study’s strict inclusion criteria make it important to replicate the study with a larger, more diverse population to fully understand the clinical significance of the results.
Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified bariatric surgeon, highlighted the complexity of obesity and the need for continued research to prevent and effectively manage this health issue. Despite being a short-term, small-scale study, participants in the study showed health benefits such as weight and visceral fat loss, and increased gut microbiota diversity. The study’s findings suggest that dietary interventions focused on improving metabolic health and gut bacteria may play a role in combatting obesity. More research is needed to explore the potential benefits of these interventions further.
