Researchers at Jiangnan University in China have identified a key gut microbe that helps regulate blood sugar levels and sugar cravings in mice, sparking hopes for a new treatment approach for type 2 diabetes.
By increasing the abundance of Bacteroides vulgatus, a specific gut microbe, diabetic mice showed improved glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion, leading to better blood sugar control and reduced sugar cravings. GLP-1 is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels and feelings of fullness.
In contrast, people with type 2 diabetes often have impaired GLP-1 function, making it challenging to manage blood sugar levels. The study’s findings suggest that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating sugar preferences, potentially contributing to the development of diabetes.
Further research is needed to determine if this discovery can be applied to humans. However, the authors claim that their study provides a new strategy for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-may-have-found-a-natural-alternative-to-ozempic